When accidents occur involving big trucks, there’s really no one involved who is completely safe. Crashes involving semis, big rigs, and tractor-trailers can be fatal not just for the truck driver but for other car drivers and occupants.
There is arguably nothing more terrifying than a rollover truck accident. Simply put, this disastrous situation occurs when a large truck loses balance or stability and rolls on its side. However, when the proper safety measures are taken, they are almost always preventable.
Below, we discuss the common causes of rollover accidents and what to do if you are involved in one.
1. Improperly Loaded Cargo
Not every truck crash results in a rollover. These accidents can occur when the truck’s center of gravity is too high off the ground, which is most often the result of cargo that is piled too high or cargo that is too heavy. When the truck makes sudden stops, the cargo is prone to movement in the cab and can easily throw the truck off balance.
2. Lack of Truck Maintenance
Drivers are required to perform safety inspections of their vehicles to ensure that all parts are well-maintained. Unfortunately, when drivers skip these essential safety steps, rollover accidents can be the result. The following parts of a truck should be regularly inspected for proper maintenance:
Brakes
Wheels, tires, and rims
Rearview mirrors
Steering wheel
Lights and reflectors
Horns and emergency equipment
3. Driver Inexperience or Negligence
A truck driver’s own negligent actions can lead to rollover accidents. Driving above the speed limit or driving at speeds in unsafe conditions are two frequent scenarios that lead to truck rollovers. Other examples of negligence include:
Talking or using a cell phone while driving
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
Fatigued driving
Eating, drinking, or changing the radio
Protecting Your Rights to Compensation
If you’ve been injured in a rollover accident, you need legal representation to ensure your rights are protected. Our trucking accident attorneys come backed with the skills, experience, and knowledge you need to obtain fair and full compensation.
Contact our firm at (254) 938-6885 to get started on your trucking accident case.