Truck accidents can be devastating, causing severe injuries and significant property damage. Understanding the different types of truck accidents is crucial for recognizing the risks and seeking appropriate legal assistance.
Join our Greenville truck accident lawyers as we explore the various types of truck accidents and their implications under South Carolina law.
Common types of truck accidents
1. Head-on collisions
Head-on collisions between trucks and smaller vehicles are among the most deadly accidents. These collisions usually occur when a truck crosses into oncoming traffic, often due to driver fatigue, impaired driving, or loss of control. The force of impact in head-on collisions can result in catastrophic injuries or fatalities.
2. Underride accidents
Underride accidents happen when a smaller vehicle slides under a truck’s trailer. These accidents are extremely dangerous and often fatal, as the top of the smaller vehicle can be sheared off. Properly maintained underride guards can help prevent these accidents, but not all trucks are equipped with them.
3. Rollover accidents
Rollover accidents happen when a truck tips over onto its side or roof. Sharp turns, excessive speed, or uneven loads often cause these accidents. Due to the size and weight of the truck, rollover accidents can be particularly dangerous, crushing smaller vehicles and causing severe injuries to other road users.
4. Jackknife accidents
A jackknife accident occurs when the truck’s trailer swings out to the side, forming an angle with the cab that resembles a folding knife. This typically happens when the driver brakes suddenly or loses control, causing the trailer to skid. Jackknife accidents can block multiple lanes of traffic and lead to multi-vehicle collisions.
5. T-bone collisions
T-bone collisions, also known as side-impact collisions, happen when the front of a truck crashes into the side of another vehicle. These accidents often occur at intersections and can cause severe injuries to the occupants of the struck vehicle, particularly on the side of impact.
6. Rear-end collisions
Rear-end collisions involving trucks usually occur when a truck crashes into the back of a smaller vehicle or when a smaller vehicle hits the back of a truck. Due to the significant weight difference, these accidents often result in serious injuries or fatalities for the smaller vehicle’s occupants.
7. Blind spot accidents
Trucks have large blind spots, known as “no-zones,” around the vehicle’s front, back, and sides. Blind spot accidents occur when a truck driver changes lanes or makes a turn without seeing a vehicle in their blind spot. These accidents can cause serious side-impact collisions.
8. Tire blowouts
Tire blowouts can cause a truck driver to lose control, leading to accidents. Blowouts can occur due to poor maintenance, manufacturing defects, or road hazards. When a truck’s tire blows out, the vehicle may swerve uncontrollably, posing a significant risk to other road users.
Legal implications in South Carolina
Establishing liability
In South Carolina, determining liability in truck accidents involves proving negligence. This can include driver error, improper maintenance, faulty equipment, or violations of safety regulations. South Carolina Code of Laws Section 15-38-15 outlines the comparative negligence rule, meaning multiple parties can share fault in an accident.
Regulations and compliance
Truck drivers and companies must comply with federal and state regulations regarding service hours, vehicle maintenance, and cargo securement. Violations of these regulations can be critical evidence in establishing liability in a truck accident case.
Hurt in a truck accident? We’re here to help.
Whether negotiating with insurance companies or representing you in court, Smith Jordan Law is committed to securing the best possible outcome for your case. Our team fights to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation if you’ve been involved in a truck accident. We look forward to hearing from you.
