Rear-end truck accidents pose a significant risk to drivers and passengers. Their sheer size and weight can cause injuries that can diminish earning capacity, require extensive medical treatment, and reduce quality of life for years to come.
Understanding the dangers of rear-end truck accidents can help injured parties recognize the importance of seeking legal representation to confidently pursue compensation for all damages and losses sustained.
At Berry Law, our truck accident lawyers want to help road users understand how to recognize and mitigate the dangers of a rear-end collision, enabling injured parties to avoid the devastating consequences of these accidents.
What is a Rear-End Truck Accident?
Anytime a commercial truck hits another vehicle from behind, it is considered a rear-end truck collision. Common examples of what causes this type of accident include:
- A truck failing to stop in time and rear-ending a stopped car at a traffic light or stop sign
- A truck driver following too closely and causing an accident when the vehicle in front of them suddenly stops or slows down
- A truck driver not paying attention and colliding with a slower-moving vehicle ahead
- A truck backing into the rear of another vehicle while trying to park or reverse
Any type of commercial vehicle can be involved in these accidents, including but not limited to:
- Semi-trucks
- Delivery trucks
- Tankers
- Flatbeds
- Dump trucks
Alarming Statistics About Rear-End Truck Collisions
Data from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration shows that approximately 20 percent of truck accidents are rear-end collisions.
Furthermore, these accidents create a substantial economic impact, costing an estimated $7 billion annually in damages and losses.
The prevalence and cost of these accidents is alarming, highlighting the need for experienced legal representation to fight for the rights of those injured.
What Causes Rear-End Truck Crashes?
The cause of any accident, including those involving commercial trucks, is negligence. This behavior takes many forms and may include:
- Distracted driving, such as texting, eating, or adjusting the radio
- Fatigue due to long hours on the road without sufficient breaks and rest
- Impaired driving from alcohol, drugs, or prescription medication
- Speeding or other reckless driving behaviors
- Poor vehicle maintenance leading to brake failure or other malfunctions
- Improperly secured cargo, leading to shifting or falling loads
To understand the root cause of a rear-end truck collision, consult a lawyer who can help investigate the accident.
Berry Law’s Team Provides You With Multiple Attorney Perspectives
What Makes Rear-End Truck Collisions So Dangerous?
The main reason these accidents are so dangerous is the sheer size and weight of commercial trucks. On average, a fully loaded tractor-trailer can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, while an average passenger car weighs only around 2,500 pounds.
This stark difference in mass means that in a collision between a truck and a car, the car will likely sustain more damage and its occupants are at a higher risk of serious injuries.
Due to their weight and size, commercial trucks also have longer stopping distances, making it difficult for them to come to a sudden stop.
What Injuries Do Rear-End Truck Accidents Cause?
The severity of injuries caused by these accidents varies, but common injuries include:
- Whiplash and other neck injuries
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Broken bones and fractures
- Internal organ damage or bleeding
When these accidents occur at high speeds, such as on highways or interstates, the injuries can be even more severe and life-threatening.
Rear-end accidents at intersections can push the impacted vehicle into traffic or into other vehicles, creating a chain reaction of multiple collisions – and incredible damage.
Why Is Receiving Compensation for a Rear-End Truck Accident Complicated?
Due to the complex nature of trucking laws and regulations, pursuing compensation for a rear-end truck collision can be challenging. Failing to understand the process can present dangers in the form of:
- Being taken advantage of by insurance and trucking companies who may try to downplay the severity of injuries or shift blame onto the injured party
- Missing important deadlines for filing claims, which can result in a loss of rights to compensation
- Not being aware of all potential damages that accident survivors are entitled to receive leading to inadequate settlements
Furthermore, the potential for multiple parties to be involved in a rear-end truck accident, including the driver, trucking company, and other third-party entities, adds another layer of complexity to seeking compensation.
How Can I Recover Compensation After a Rear-End Collision?
Seeking help from experienced truck accident lawyers is often the best way to ensure maximum compensation for damages and losses sustained. They may be able to help mitigate the dangers faced in a truck collision by:
- Gathering evidence and building a strong case to prove the negligence of the truck driver or other responsible parties
- Negotiating with insurance companies to secure compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages
- Providing legal guidance and support throughout the claims process and potential lawsuit if needed
Trying to take on the complex process of seeking compensation without experienced legal representation may further exacerbate the dangers of a truck accident.
Therefore, choosing a personal injury law firm is essential to provide the best chance of securing compensation matching the level of damages and losses suffered.
Rear-End Truck Accident FAQs
How long do I have to file a claim after a rear-end truck accident?
The statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim varies by state, but it is important to act quickly and not wait until the deadline approaches. An experienced truck accident lawyer can help ensure all necessary paperwork and documentation are submitted within the required timeframe.
What if I was partially at fault for the rear-end truck accident?
In some states, being partially at fault for an accident may still allow injured parties to seek compensation, but the amount awarded may be reduced based on the level of fault. Consulting with a lawyer can help determine how this may affect a case.
What is the danger of accepting a settlement offer without legal representation?
Without proper legal guidance, it can be challenging to determine if a settlement offer covers all damages sustained. An experienced truck accident lawyer can help negotiate for a more appropriate settlement amount.
Will I have to go to court for a rear-end truck accident case?
These cases are often settled without having to go to court. However, the case may go to trial if a settlement cannot be reached. An experienced truck accident lawyer can represent the impacted party in either scenario.
Secure Compensation After a Rear-End Truck Accident With the Help of Berry Law
Being in a rear-end collision doesn’t have to result in long-term financial burden and pain.
At Berry Law, our team of experienced personal injury lawyers is dedicated to fighting for the rights of accident survivors and securing maximum compensation for their damages and losses.
Contact us today for a free consultation. Our experienced truck accident lawyers are available 24/7 online or at (402) 466-8444.
