Commercial trucks, such as 18-wheelers, are significantly larger and heavier than passenger vehicles. When involved in accidents, these massive vehicles can cause devastating injuries or fatalities to those in smaller vehicles. Truck accident victims often face challenging legal issues involving trucking companies, insurance policies, and complex regulations governing commercial vehicles. Our experienced Louisiana truck accident attorneys are here to help victims navigate these challenges, holding the responsible parties accountable and securing the compensation they deserve.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents

Truck accidents often result from negligence by truck drivers, their employers, or others involved in operating and maintaining commercial vehicles. Common causes of these collisions include:

Driver Fatigue

Truck drivers frequently work long hours, and despite federal regulations that limit driving hours and mandate rest breaks, some drivers are pressured to continue driving beyond safe limits. Fatigue can slow reaction times, cause drowsiness, or even lead to drivers falling asleep behind the wheel, significantly increasing the risk of accidents.

Drug or Alcohol Use

Impaired driving is dangerous in any circumstance, but truck drivers operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs present an even greater risk. Some drivers may use stimulants like methamphetamines to stay awake, while others may be affected by prescription medications that impair coordination, reaction time, or decision-making.

Inadequate Training

Commercial truck drivers must undergo rigorous training to operate large vehicles safely. Insufficient training can lead to poor judgment, failure to follow safety protocols, or improper handling of trucks, all of which can contribute to accidents.

Traffic Violations

Truck drivers engaging in unsafe driving behaviors—such as speeding, tailgating, or ignoring traffic signals—endanger everyone on the road. Given the size and weight of commercial trucks, they require greater stopping distances, making adherence to traffic laws vital for avoiding accidents.

Maintenance Failures

Routine maintenance is essential to keep commercial trucks in safe operating condition. Mechanical issues, such as brake malfunctions, tire blowouts, or engine problems, can cause drivers to lose control. Neglected inspections or maintenance can lead to preventable accidents and severe injuries.

Unsecured Cargo

Improperly secured cargo can shift during transit, causing trucks to become unbalanced and increasing the likelihood of rollovers or jackknife accidents. Additionally, loose items may fall onto the road, posing significant dangers to other drivers.

Determining Liability in Truck Accidents

Truck accident cases often involve multiple liable parties, making thorough investigations critical to securing fair compensation. Common parties that may be held accountable include:

Truck Drivers

Drivers may be liable for accidents caused by fatigue, distraction, speeding, or impaired driving. Driving logs, GPS data, and other records can provide evidence of negligence.

Trucking Companies

Employers may share liability for accidents caused by their drivers. Companies can also be held accountable for negligent hiring practices, insufficient driver training, or failure to maintain their fleets properly.

Manufacturers

If a mechanical failure, such as a defective brake or faulty tire, contributed to the accident, the manufacturer of the truck or its components may be held liable through a product liability claim.

Steps to Take After a Truck Accident

After a truck accident, the actions you take can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation:

1. Seek Medical Attention: Your health and safety should be the top priority. Get medical treatment immediately, even if you feel fine, as some injuries may not be apparent right away.
2. Call Law Enforcement: Police reports can serve as crucial evidence in establishing liability.
3. Document the Scene: Take photos or videos of the accident site, vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
4. Collect Information: Exchange contact and insurance information with all parties involved. Identify witnesses and collect their contact details.
5. Contact an Attorney: Truck accident cases often involve multiple parties and complex legal issues. An experienced attorney can guide you through the process and protect your rights.

Contact Our Louisiana Truck Accident Attorneys

Truck accidents can lead to life-changing injuries and financial hardships. At our firm, we are dedicated to helping victims hold negligent truck drivers, trucking companies, and other responsible parties accountable. We thoroughly investigate every case, identify liable parties, negotiate with insurance companies, and, when necessary, pursue legal action to secure maximum compensation.

Schedule Your Free Consultation Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact us now to discuss your case and explore your options for recovery. Call us at 504.822.8350 or fill out our form to schedule a free consultation. Let us help you get the justice and compensation you deserve.