When large commercial vehicles collide with passenger cars, the end result is almost always catastrophic. Standard size cars, even larger SUVs, do not stand a chance when struck by massive semi-trailer trucks. The immense weight that these trucks pull is the main reason why the damage to smaller vehicles is so severe. Sadly, the damage doesn’t just end with the vehicle getting destroyed; passengers in smaller cars suffer tremendous personal injury in these types of accidents. Tragically, many people lose their lives in these collisions. After you are involved in a truck accident, it’s in your best interest to hire a team of experienced San Francisco truck accident lawyers to represent you in court. Having the right legal team on your side can make a dramatic difference in the compensation figure you may be entitled to.
Statistics and Negligence
According to the California Highway Patrol, statewide, 265 truck accidents ended fatally in 2008. That same year, there were 5,810 injuries reported due to truck accidents. People living in the Bay Area experienced a portion of these accidents. 74 people were injured in San Francisco alone because of truck related accidents. This number amounts to 3 people in the city alone incurring some form of truck accident injury every two weeks.
Negligent driving practice that these “Big Rig” drivers engage in causes serious personal injury to other motorists on the roads and freeways. As truck drivers owe a duty of care to those they share the road with, they are responsible for the safety of others. When truck drivers breach this duty, thus acting negligently, then they can be held liable for the injuries, property damage, and wrongful deaths that they cause. The California Highway Patrol lists the following negligent actions as the main causes of San Francisco truck accidents:
• Unsafe Speed
• Unsafe Lane Change
• Improper Turning
• Ignoring Posted Signage
While certainly the most prevalent form of negligent driving is speeding, others include driving under the influence, following too close, and even driving on the wrong side of the road.
Have you, or someone close to you, suffered personal injury in a truck accident? Have you lost someone close to you in a truck accident where you believe the truck driver was acting negligently? If so, a team of San Francisco truck accident lawyers will be able to compile an effective case on your behalf. Don’t hesitate to contact an experienced lawyer, you and your family may be entitled to substantial compensation for your injury or loss.