The trucking industry is big business in the U.S. and is forecasted to generate over one trillion dollars by 2015. With so many trucks on the roads the chances of being involved in a semi truck accident in North Carolina are increasingly likely. However, most crashes can be prevented. Whether due to a driver’s unsafe actions or the failure of trucking companies to maintain properly serviced trucks, negligent behaviors cause thousands of deaths each year and even more injuries.
Some of the causes of semi truck accidents in North Carolina include the following:
Unsafe vehicles
It is estimated that 1 in 3 trucks on the road are operating illegally because they are improperly maintained. Companies may also overload or improperly load trucks to maximize profits, which often results in accidents when items shift during transit.
Dangerous drivers
Drivers work long hours and are under pressure to get to their destination as fast as possible even if that means driving more than the number of hours permitted by law. Drivers are often fatigued and prone to the influence of drugs or alcohol to stay awake, increasing the likelihood that North Carolina semi truck accidents will occur.
Jackknifing
When a semi truck comes to a sudden stop, encounters slippery road conditions, or the truck’s load shifts, the trailer is prone to jackknife. During a jackknife, the trailer can collide with vehicles or objects in its path and cause the semi to veer off course. Consequences of this type of North Carolina semi truck accident can be serious and even fatal.
Wide turns
Semi trucks need to swing wide in order to make turns. When a semi makes a wide turn the visible area of the driver is restricted and vehicles behind or beside the truck may not be seen and become vulnerable to collisions.
Blind spots
Semi trucks have blind spots in the front, back, and on either side of the trailer. When another vehicle is in the truck’s blind spot, the two may collide. This often happens when a car is passing the truck, or the truck makes a turn, or lane change.
Stopping distance
Semi trucks require greater stopping distance. When a truck does not have the required stopping distance dangerous rear-end collisions may occur.
Get legal help from our NC injury attorneys today
At Greg Jones Law, our attorneys hold truck drivers and their employers responsible for negligent behavior. It is important to retain the services of a semi truck accident lawyer in North Carolina as soon as possible. If you are unable to travel, we can also arrange to visit you in the hospital.
Call Greg Jones Law, in Wilmington, North Carolina, at 800-481-5707 or
contact us online.
