Truck accidents are a major problem on US roads

Imagine driving down the road and seeing a large tractor trailer a few hundred feet in front of you. As you approach the truck, everything seems normal. You start to pass it on the left, and you think nothing of it. And then, all of a sudden, that truck starts merging into your lane without showing a glimmer of understanding that you are right there. An accident ensues, and you suffer terrible injuries as a result of the crash – and yet that makes you one of the lucky ones.

Truck accidents kill hundreds of people every year. Many more suffer severe injuries as a result of truck accidents. There are ways for you to drive safely around trucks. If you keep your distance and avoid their blind spots, then you greatly increase the chances of you passing a truck without any incident.

But the problem is that even safe drivers who follow best practices around a truck can suffer at the hands of a negligent truck driver. Many truck drivers work long hours and become very tired. They may even disobey rest laws, putting other drivers at risk in the process. Truck companies can become liable too if they engage in or allow drivers flaunting these laws.

Additionally, when drivers are tired, they may try to stay awake by drinking excessive amounts of caffeine or energy drinks. This comes with its own set of nasty side-effects that can increase the chances of a driver getting into an accident.

If you are involved in a truck accident, talk with the experienced attorneys at Engle & Kauffman to get your questions answered about your legal standing.