Large commercial trucks present different types of dangers on the roadway than traditional, smaller vehicles. One of those dangers includes the possibility of an override accident occurring. Override truck accidents are not the most common type of large truck collision that occurs in Arizona, but they do happen, and they can cause major injuries and even death.
What Is an Override Truck Accident?
An override truck accident happens when a large commercial truck (not just semi-trucks or tractor-trailers, but also other larger vehicles), collides with a smaller vehicle in a way that the front of the truck literally rides over the back or side of the passenger vehicle. Due to the significant height difference between trucks and cars, the smaller vehicle can be crushed beneath the truck, leading to devastating consequences.
These accidents are often more severe than typical rear-end collisions due to the overall size and weight of commercial trucks. When a truck “rides over” a car, the force exerted can crush the roof and cabin of the smaller vehicle, causing severe injuries or fatalities to those inside. It is not uncommon for the top of the vehicle to be completely sheared off in these accidents.
Common Causes of Override Truck Accidents
Override truck accidents can occur for a variety of reasons, often related to the size of the truck and the conditions on the road. Some of the most common causes of these accidents include:
- Driver negligence. One of the leading causes of override truck accidents is truck driver error. Drivers who are distracted, impaired, or speeding are more likely to be involved in these dangerous collisions. Distraction can come from cell phones, onboard devices, or simple inattention to the road. Impairment from alcohol, drugs, or fatigue also increases the risk. Speeding, especially in bad weather or congested areas, makes it harder for a truck to stop in time to avoid a collision.
- Mechanical failure. Commercial trucks are complex machines that require regular maintenance to ensure they are safe for operation. Mechanical issues can prevent a truck driver from stopping in time, leading to an override accident. In some cases, these failures result from a trucking company’s (or owner-operator’s) failure to properly maintain its fleet or from defective parts.
- Hazardous weather conditions. Wet, icy, or slick road surfaces can make it difficult for large trucks to stop or slow down quickly. When trucks are traveling at highway speeds on slippery surfaces, the risk of an override accident increases. Reduced visibility due to fog, heavy rain, or snow also contributes to the possibility of these crashes, as truck drivers may not see smaller vehicles in time to react.
- Poor road conditions. Roads with potholes, debris, or inadequate signage can increase the likelihood of a truck accident. If a truck driver must swerve or stop suddenly to avoid hazards, there is a higher chance of losing control and running over a smaller vehicle. In some cases, the poor design of the road itself, such as inadequate lighting or sharp curves, can play a role in causing a collision.
How Does Liability Get Determined After an Override Truck Accident in Arizona?
Determining liability after an override truck accident can be complex due to the multiple parties that may be involved. It is not always immediately clear who is responsible for the crash, and a thorough investigation is necessary. The following parties could potentially share liability for the accident:
- The truck driver. If the driver was acting negligently—whether through speeding, driving under the influence, or failing to pay attention to the road—they could be held liable for the accident. The truck driver’s actions leading up to the collision will be closely examined to determine if they were operating the vehicle safely.
- The trucking company. In many cases, the trucking company that employs the driver can also be held responsible. This is particularly true if the company failed to properly train the driver, allowed the truck to be operated in an unsafe condition, or did not enforce hours-of-service regulations designed to prevent driver fatigue. Additionally, if the company neglected regular maintenance or knowingly used defective parts, they could share liability.
- Third parties. There are also situations where third parties, such as manufacturers or maintenance companies, may be responsible for an accident. If a defective part caused a brake failure or other mechanical issue that led to the override accident, the manufacturer of that part could be held liable. Likewise, a company responsible for maintaining the truck could be at fault if they failed to perform adequate inspections or repairs.
Should You Speak to an Attorney About Your Case?
If you or a loved one has been involved in an override truck accident in Arizona, it is crucial to speak with an experienced truck accident attorney as soon as possible. Truck accidents often involve complex legal issues, multiple liable parties, and large insurance companies that may attempt to minimize your claim.
A skilled injury attorney can help you by:
- Conducting a thorough investigation into the accident, including gathering evidence from the scene, reviewing the truck’s black box data, and examining driver logs.
- Identifying all potential sources of liability, including the truck driver, trucking company, and third parties.
- Negotiating with insurance companies to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
- Preparing your case for trial, if necessary, to fight for maximum compensation.
Do not hesitate to seek legal help after an override accident. A dedicated Phoenix, Arizona truck accident attorney can guide you through the legal process and help protect your rights during this challenging time.