When a tractor-trailer or other commercial vehicle is involved in a wreck, the results are often tragic. These vehicles can weigh up to 80,000 lbs.2 Even the safest car, truck, or SUV doesn’t stand a chance when it gets hit by a tractor-trailer. Tractor-trailers and other commercial trucks are subject to many rules that don’t apply to other drivers.
From requirements that drivers have commercial licenses to rules about the way the trucks are maintained how long drivers can go without taking a break, truckers and other commercial drivers have to follow rules that are in place to protect themselves and the other drivers on the road. If you or a loved one is involved in a wreck with a tractor-trailer or other commercial vehicle, you need a truck accident lawyer who understands the rules that apply to commercial drivers and knows what to look for when investigating your case.
From problematic weather conditions to traffic, a variety of circumstances increase the likelihood of South Carolina truck accidents. Often, these issues are beyond the control of the truck drivers or the other motorists with whom they share the road. Two issues, however, stand out as among the most worrisome: distraction and speeding.
While distracted driving is a big problem among all types of South Carolina motorists, it’s particularly dangerous when it occurs behind the wheel of a truck. The sheer size of these vehicles means that it takes even longer to recover from a seemingly brief moment of distraction.
Distraction can take many forms, but often involves the use of cell phones. Truck drivers should know better, and yet, data from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) indicates that cell phone use is the second-leading form of driver error in fatal truck accidents.
Truck drivers are constantly under pressure to meet deadlines. Some attempt to mitigate this by traveling at speeds well above the posted limit.
The dangers associated with speeding behind the wheel are similar for trucks and other types of vehicles. With trucks, however, speeding is especially reckless, as these vehicles typically have higher centers of gravity and take longer to bring to a stop.
South Carolina truck drivers must abide by both federal and state-based regulations. Important requirements worth considering include:
Now that you have a basic idea of why truck accidents occur in Greenville and how these incidents are handled at the local level, it’s time to take the next step.
If you believe that somebody else’s negligence could be to blame for your current suffering, take a stand. With a Greenville truck accident attorney in your corner, you can achieve the justice and damages to which you’re entitled.
While a variety of qualities are desirable in a truck accident lawyer, knowledge of the area is one of the most frequently overlooked considerations — and it’s one of the most important. Your truck accident lawyer in Greenville SC should have an intimate understanding of local rules and procedures. Small details can make a world of difference, so representation targeted to the local community is crucial.
Also important? Assertive representation. Many roadblocks will stand in the way as you seek compensation for your suffering, but the right truck accident lawyer can bypass these concerns simply by employing a proactive approach. You should feel confident that your Greenville truck accident lawyer will fight passionately on your behalf. With Smith Jordan in your corner, you can feel confident in your path to justice.
Contact us today to learn more.
1 https://www.nhtsa.gov/road-safety/motorcycles; https://crashstats.nhtsa.dot.gov/Api/Public/ViewPublication/812962
2 https://ops.fhwa.dot.gov/Freight/sw/overview/index.htm
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