Common Types Of Fatal Truck Accidents

A deadly truck accident takes only seconds to occur. When a car collides with a truck, the outcome is usually horrific and if they are not fatal, they often will at least cause devastating injuries. However, if the truck driver caused the accident to happen, you may be able to recover some compensation for the damages through a personal injury claim.

An injury lawyer with experience in such cases can help determine what might have led to your truck crash and whether the truck driver was responsible. Additionally, your injury lawyer knows the evidence that will be necessary to build a solid case. They can collect medical records, documentation and witness reports to substantiate your claim.

The Most Common Types of Fatal Truck Accidents

There are some common types of fatal truck accidents that can occur. Unfortunately, a passenger vehicle is simply no match for a huge rig. When truck drivers are negligent or if the trucking company they work for has played a part in negligence, you may be able to recover damages for the loss of your loved one.

One common type of fatal truck accident is a rear underride accident. This occurs when a smaller vehicle strikes the back of the truck and slides at least partially under it. If the top of the vehicle is at the same height as the back of the truck, it can cause fatal head injuries to those inside the vehicle.

The same thing can happen in a side underride accident, only the vehicle hits the side of the truck. In any accident where the vehicle is at the same height as the truck upon impact, it can lead to a fatal underride accident.

In an override accident, a truck runs over a smaller vehicle or motorcycle. These are often fatal, as well.

Another common type of fatal truck accident is a head-on collision. When a vehicle and a tractor trailer hit each other directly head-on, the results are often deadly. The force and impact of a large truck hitting a vehicle increases the likelihood of severe or fatal injuries.

When a truck jackknifes, that can also lead to devastating consequences.

This occurs when the truck or the trailer that is attached "folds." When a truck has to quickly stop or skids, the trailer could come from behind and spin around until it is facing backward. In many cases, a truck that jackknifes often turns into a rollover crash.

Yet another common type of truck accident that can be fatal is a rollover. Speeding or taking a sharp turn too quickly is more often the cause of a rollover than jackknifing. There are likely to be fatalities when a truck rolls over and hits or crushes other vehicles.

When a truck spills its contents, it can prove to be devastating. Sometimes trucks are carrying dangerous or flammable contents, which can lead to an explosion. Other types of spilled contents can lead to burn injuries. Chemical and gas spills from a truck are the most dangerous.

After a Serious or Fatal Truck Accident

An injury lawyer knows that if your loved one has been severely injured or has died as a result of a fatal truck accident, you have enough on your mind to deal with. The thought of pursuing an injury claim or wrongful death case might sound overwhelming.

However, an injury lawyer can ease the burden by taking care of the paperwork, including the filing of your claim and dealing with the insurance companies. They will work with you to make the process as stress-free as possible, allowing you the opportunity to take care of the arrangements for your loved one.