Injured in a truck accident? Truck drivers need to know about the risk of High-Speed winds. In a recent study, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) determined that when winds exceed 25 miles per hour, there is a far greater chance of an 18-wheeler to be involved in an accident. This is because once winds exceed 25 miles per hour, wind resistance will oftentimes mount on one side of the truck, and due to a truck’s large size, this can often result in that truck tipping over. These accidents most frequently occur on bridges, overpasses, open prairies, and highways. Whether you are a truck driver or you are someone who has been involved in an 18-wheeler accident, you must continue reading and speak with our knowledgeable Texas personal injury attorneys to learn more about the dangers of high-speed winds and what our firm can do for you if you’ve been injured.
What factors result in high-speed winds 18-wheeler accidents?
The three main factors that contribute to 18-wheeler accidents are high crosswinds, improperly loaded trucks, and truckers who fail to appropriately respond to such wind-related hazards. High crosswinds can cause a truck to topple over, especially if the truck driver is driving at too high of a speed. Additionally, when a truck is improperly loaded, it can become off-balance, and from here, the high winds will cause it to tip. Finally, truck drivers are responsible for planning ahead, meaning they must check the weather and prepare for high winds ahead of time, and when they encounter high winds, they must respond accordingly by either pulling over or slowing down. Failing to do so frequently causes very serious accidents.
What should I do if I am injured in a truck accident?
If you are injured in a truck accident, the first thing you should do is call the police, as they will send an ambulance that will take you to a hospital for treatment. You should then ask the truck driver for his or her insurance information if you can, take pictures of the scene of the accident, and ask any witnesses for their contact information. Finally, once you are treated, you must retain the services of an experienced Texas personal injury attorney who can help you through every step of the claims process ahead.
Contact our experienced Smith County, Texas firm
There are few things more jarring and disturbing than being wrongly injured in an accident. Our firm understands how difficult it can be to recuperate after a serious accident, which is why we are here to help you through the legal process, every step of the way. If you or a loved one were injured in an accident due to another party’s negligence, you need a skilled attorney on your side. Contact J. Chad Parker, PLLC today for an attorney who is ready to fight for the compensation you deserve.