If you’re worried about driving on the road surrounded by big rigs, you have a valid concern, though you shouldn’t let it deter you from living a normal life. Truck accidents are worse than car accidents, so it’s important you practice extra caution when driving near a semi. The following are some reasons truck accidents are so much worse.
The Added Weight
When you compare the weight of a semi truck with the weight of a pickup truck or car, you’ll begin to see why big semis are more dangerous when involved in a crash. A filled 18-wheeler could weigh up to 80,000 pounds or more, while the average pick-up truck only weighs around 4,710 pounds, and the average car weighs only about 2,871 pounds. Imagine 80,000 pounds smashing into something, then picture 2,871 pounds smashing into something. The difference in damage would be drastic.
The weight of a big rig also makes it much harder for the vehicle to stop in a short amount of time. A pickup truck or small car could slam on the brakes in an emergency situation and possibly stop in just a matter of feet. A big rig, on the other hand, would require a considerable amount of additional space to stop with all that weight pushing forward, which means they are more likely to be in an accident.
The Large Size
Again, in comparing a big rig to a pickup or small car, you’ll quickly notice a size difference. When a car is involved in an accident, it is often just that one car that is affected. If not just that one car, then maybe just one additional car. In a big rig accident, there are typically many vehicles that are affected. The size of the truck means it can wipe out multiple vehicles at once. Not only other vehicles, but also buildings and other types of property are more easily damaged due to the size of a large truck.
The Types of Negligence
Types of negligence in a truck accident become more severe because of the two previously mentioned aspects of weight and size. Some drivers may be negligent in staying within the speed limit, getting an appropriate amount of sleep, familiarizing oneself with the roadway or following other rules specific to truck driving. When a truck driver is negligent, the consequences are often severe.
Receiving Help From Your Attorney
If you are involved in an accident with a semi truck, it could benefit you to have a lawyer on your side. There are damages you could seek to recover, and your lawyer can help you understand those. Contact a trucking accident lawyer, like a Woodland Hills trucking accident lawyer, to receive help.
Thanks to Barry P. Goldberg, A Professional Law Corporation for their insight into why truck accidents are so bad.
