Truck Accidents in Southaven, MS
Skilled Representation for Southaven Truck Accident Victims
In a collision between a passenger vehicle and a large commercial truck, occupants of the much smaller vehicle are likely to suffer severe, catastrophic, or fatal injuries. If you have been hurt or lost a loved one in a truck accident in Southaven, you may be entitled to seek compensation for your losses. Experienced legal representation can help you navigate the complexities of a truck accident case and give you the best chance of recovering the compensation you deserve.
What Are the Causes of Truck Accidents in Mississippi
In 2021 in Mississippi, 108 people were killed in traffic crashes involving large trucks, as reported by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA ). Although various factors can contribute to big rig crashes, many involve truck driver or trucking company negligence. In the Large Truck Crash Causation Study, the critical reason for the crash was assigned to large trucks and their drivers in 55% of single and multi-vehicle truck accidents. The following are common causes of truck accidents in Mississippi and throughout the U.S.:
- Driver fatigue: FMCSA has issued hours of service regulations to reduce fatigued driving among commercial truck drivers. Despite these federal regulations, drivers under pressure to meet delivery deadlines may be over-tired. A tired driver can have impaired reaction time and decision-making abilities, which increases the risk of a truck accident.
- Speeding: A semi truck’s sheer size and weight amplify the consequences of a high-speed collision. Large commercial trucks require more time and distance to stop than smaller vehicles. Speeding reduces a trucker’s ability to react to sudden obstacles or changes in traffic conditions, increasing the likelihood of a catastrophic outcome.
- Distracted driving: Truck drivers may be distracted by mobile devices, GPS systems, or anything inside or outside the cab that diverts their attention from the road. Driver distraction is dangerous under any circumstances, particularly when the driver is behind the wheel of an 80,000 lb. 18-wheeler.
- Improper vehicle maintenance: Brake problems and other types of vehicle failure are among the main factors associated with truck accidents. Trucking companies are required under federal regulations to inspect and properly maintain their vehicles regularly. They may be held liable for resulting injuries when they fail to do so.
- Improper loading of cargo: When cargo is improperly loaded or secured, it can shift during transport, causing the truck to become unbalanced. An unbalanced load increases the risk of rollovers, jackknifing, and loss of control of the vehicle.
- Driving under the influence of drugs: Researchers found a prevalence of overall drug consumption of 27.6% among truck drivers in a recent study published by the National Institutes of Health (NIH ). Prescription and over-the-counter drug use were among the top 10 associated factors coded for large trucks and their drivers in the Large Truck Crash Causation Study.
What Types of Injuries Can Truck Accidents Cause?
A crash involving a large commercial truck can cause a wide range of serious injuries, including the following:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord damage
- Bone fractures
- Internal injuries
- Severe burns (if the truck catches on fire or an explosion occurs)
- Emotional distress caused by the trauma of the accident
Why Do You Need an Experienced Truck Accident Attorney?
Truck accidents are complex cases involving state and federal regulations and multiple potentially liable parties. It is in your best interests to have an experienced truck accident lawyer handling your case. Our seasoned personal injury attorneys at ‘Maggio Law can thoroughly investigate the accident, gather evidence to support your claim, negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, and fight for the compensation you deserve in trial if necessary. Contact our firm after a serious truck accident in Southaven.
