Truck accidents can be devastating for Wisconsin commuters. Because trucks are so much larger and heavier than passenger vehicles, these crashes frequently cause severe injuries.
If a truck accident injured you, you may qualify to seek compensation.
Trucks and cars are not equal
A fully loaded tractor-trailer weighing 80,000 pounds towers at 13.5 feet, spans 8.5 feet in width and extends an average length of 72 feet. In comparison, the average passenger car weighs a mere 4,094 pounds, stands around six feet tall and is an average of 14.7 feet long.
The sheer size and weight of trucks intensify the impact on drivers and passengers of smaller vehicles, underscoring the heightened risk passenger vehicle occupants face in such incidents.
Trucks maneuver differently
Large trucks present challenges in maneuvering compared to cars due to inherent differences in their design and functionality. With their substantial size and weight, trucks have longer braking distances and need more space to make turns.
The extended length between the cab and trailer complicates maneuverability, especially in tight spaces. Additionally, trucks have larger blind spots, requiring drivers to exercise extra caution during lane changes.
Common causes of truck accidents
Driver fatigue poses a significant risk, with long hours on the road impairing reaction times and increasing accident chances. Speeding reduces a truck driver’s ability to respond promptly.
Wisconsin’s diverse weather conditions, encompassing snow and rain, further increase the risk of accidents. Improper loading of trucks, coupled with unsecured cargo, can lead to instability, heightening the likelihood of rollovers during transit.
Injuries
Truck accidents can lead to various injuries, including whiplash from sudden impacts, fractures due to the force of collisions, concussions from head injuries and psychological distress stemming from the traumatic event. These injuries can have long-lasting effects.
You might be eligible for damages such as reimbursement for medical expenses, lost wages and property damage. Non-economic damages compensate for the effects of your injuries on your quality of life.
Safety tips to avoid collisions
To minimize the risk of truck collisions, commuters can adopt several safety measures. Maintaining a safe distance from trucks on the road allows for enhanced visibility and reaction time. Being conscious of blind spots—especially on the sides and rear of trucks—helps prevent collisions during lane changes.
Adapting driving speed and behaviors based on weather conditions is crucial for navigating safely in adverse situations. Using caution at intersections, where truck accidents are more likely to occur, ensures a safer commute.
Additionally, reporting instances of unsafe truck driving behavior to the appropriate authorities contributes to accident prevention.
