Larger commercial trucks don’t roll over often, but when they do occur, the incident can cause severe injuries and extensive property damage. Rollover collisions are often caused by the negligent actions of truck drivers, trucking carriers, or other parties involved in the overall operation of the commercial vehicle. If you have been harmed in a truck rollover accident, we encourage you to speak to a semi-truck accident attorney in Phoenix with experience handling these claims as quickly as possible.
What Causes Rollover Truck Accidents?
Rollover accidents involving commercial trucks typically occur due to a combination of factors, including human error, mechanical failure, or hazardous road conditions. Some of the most common causes include:
- Driver error. Truck drivers must exercise extreme caution due to the size and weight of their vehicles. Speeding, distracted driving, or taking sharp turns too quickly are common driver errors that can lead to rollovers. Fatigued driving, which affects reaction times and judgment, is another critical factor in truck rollover incidents.
- Unbalanced loads. Improperly loaded or unsecured cargo can shift during transport, creating instability and causing the truck to tip over, especially during turns or sudden maneuvers. Drivers and trucking carriers (sometimes these are one and the same) have a responsibility to ensure that loads are balanced and properly secured before hitting the road.
- Road hazards. Poor roadway conditions, which can mean uneven pavement, potholes, or sharp curves, can increase the likelihood of a rollover, particularly if the truck is traveling at high speeds. Weather-related hazards like rain, snow, or ice also contribute to rollovers by reducing traction.
- Mechanical failure. Defective parts, such as faulty brakes, suspension issues, or tire blowouts, can lead to a loss of vehicle control and cause a rollover. In some cases, the truck manufacturer or maintenance company may be held liable for these accidents.
Common Injuries in Rollover Truck Accidents
Due to the size and weight of commercial trucks, rollover accidents often result in catastrophic injuries for those involved. Some of the most common injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI). The violent nature of a rollover can cause significant trauma to the head, leading to concussions or more severe brain injuries that affect cognitive and motor functions.
- Spinal cord injuries. These types of injuries can result in partial or total paralysis, depending on the severity of the impact. Victims may face lifelong medical care and rehabilitation as a result of spinal trauma.
- Crush injuries. When a truck rolls over, it can crush smaller vehicles in its path, leading to broken bones, amputations, and internal organ damage for those involved.
- Burn injuries. Rollover accidents can sometimes cause fuel leaks or fires, leading to severe burn injuries for the victims. Burn injuries often require extensive medical treatment, including surgeries and long-term rehabilitation.
Who Can Be Held Liable for a Rollover Truck Accident?
Determining liability in a rollover truck accident is complex, as multiple parties may share responsibility. A thorough investigation is necessary to identify all liable parties, which can include:
- The truck driver. If the driver’s negligence caused the accident, such as by speeding, distracted driving, or fatigue, they may be held accountable. Truck drivers have a duty to operate their vehicles safely and in accordance with federal regulations.
- The trucking company. Trucking companies are responsible for properly training their drivers, maintaining their fleet, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. If the company failed to provide adequate training or did not perform regular maintenance, they could share liability for the rollover accident.
- The cargo loaders. In cases where improper loading or securing of cargo caused the rollover, the individuals or company responsible for loading the truck may be held liable. Unbalanced or unsecured cargo can drastically affect a truck’s stability, leading to dangerous accidents.
- Vehicle or part manufacturers. If a mechanical defect, such as a brake failure or tire blowout, led to the accident, the manufacturer of the truck or its parts could be liable for the damages. In such cases, a product liability claim may be necessary to recover compensation.
The Role of Insurance in Rollover Truck Accidents
Navigating the insurance process after a rollover truck accident can be complex. Commercial trucks, companies, and independent owner-operators are required to carry higher levels of insurance than passenger vehicles due to the potential for severe damage and injury. However, insurance companies representing trucking companies are often more aggressive in defending claims, as they seek to minimize payouts.
Insurance claims adjusters for the carrier and driver may try to either downplay the extent of your injuries or even seek to shift liability onto other parties. It is not uncommon for adjusters to offer settlements that are far below what you may be entitled to. This is why having an attorney to handle negotiations with insurance companies is critical. An experienced truck accident lawyer will know how to calculate the full extent of your damages, including future medical expenses and non-economic losses like pain and suffering.
In cases where more than one party shares liable for the accident, the insurance process can become even more complicated. For example, if both the driver and the trucking company share fault, their respective insurance policies may need to be coordinated. An attorney can ensure that all liable parties are held accountable and that you receive the maximum compensation available under the law.
Why You Need Legal Representation After a Rollover Truck Accident
Truck accidents, especially rollovers, involve numerous complexities that are not typical in standard car accident cases. The severity of the injuries, the potential involvement of multiple liable parties, and the need for in-depth investigations all underscore the importance of having a legal professional on your side.
A Phoenix injury attorney with experience handling Arizona truck accident claims can thoroughly investigate the accident, gather critical evidence, and work with accident reconstruction experts if necessary. They can also navigate the complexities of federal and state regulations, ensuring that your case is presented effectively.