How do Truck Drivers in Semi Trucks Make Nevada Roads Unsafe
Nevada is a major thoroughfare for long-haul truckers. The addition of huge and heavy big rigs, tractor-trailers, and semi-trucks to Nevada roads can be very intimidating to other motorists, which is why many drive uneasily when a large truck or two pull up alongside them on a multi-lane highway. The distinguishing size features of a truck also make them very dangerous if they are involved with a car in a motor vehicle crash as these often lead to serious injuries.
A Nevada truck accident can easily cause serious injury or death to the occupants of a smaller vehicle. Though defective manufacturing or design sometimes plays a part in truck accidents, the most common cause is driver negligence or error.
All truck drivers are required to have special training and pass a licensing test proving that they are capable of safely operating their big rig. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, FMCSA, has details on different types of training that drivers can utilize to gain licensure and prove they are competent drivers while also knowing the rules of the road that apply to their industry.
Common Causes of Trucking Accidents
Fatigue
Did you know that driving while fatigued is one of the most frequent forms of driver negligence? Thousands of people are injured every year in truck accidents caused by drivers who are too tired to operate a vehicle safely. Truck drivers are required to abide by strict federal regulations concerning the number of hours they are allowed to drive without sleep or rest, but many do not.
This is often done in an effort to make delivery deadlines that may be unreasonable. Driving while fatigued is very dangerous and can be just as dangerous as driving drunk or intoxicated. A truck driver that does not follow federally mandated work hour limits may be considered negligent, and thus responsible for any injuries that result.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident caused by a fatigued driver, you may be able to file a lawsuit against the driver and the trucking company. This is helped by hiring an experienced truck accident lawyer to help ensure your case is well taken care of and that you’re fairly compensated for any severe injury.
Improperly Secured Loads or Overloads
Nevada big rig accidents may also be caused by a truck driver who improperly loads (overloads) the truck, is speeding, or driving distractedly or recklessly. Federal regulations determine the maximum weight a truck may be loaded, as well as the distribution of that weight.
If a driver does not follow these rules, they may be held liable for any accident caused by the overloading. Likewise, if a truck driver causes an accident due to the non-compliance of speed limits and state traffic laws, they may also be held liable.
What To Do If You Have Been Involved In A Big Rig Accident
If you are involved in a motor vehicle accident involving a semi truck call the police and request medical assistance if you are hurt. If your vehicle is still in the main road at the accident scene its best to move it to the side of the road, but if it isn’t mobile and you are capable of walking get yourself to a safer place away from the main path of traffic.
Be sure to take pictures of any damage and get a copy of the police report once it has been filed. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you with the process of obtaining a copy of the police report if you are unsure how to obtain one. If you or a loved one has been injured in a Nevada truck crash caused by truck driver negligence, you could seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, property damage and pain and suffering by filing a personal injury claim with an experienced attorney.
At Shook & Stone, our skilled Las Vegas truck accident lawyers have handled many truck accident cases and will investigate the details of your accident to determine the validity of your claim. Call us today for a free consultation at 702-570-0000.
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