Los Angeles Wide Turn Truck Accidents
Have you seen a commercial truck make a turn? The truck driver must swing the truck out wide to the left before he can make a right turn. This maneuver can place the truck in the path of another vehicle. Furthermore, when making the right turn, the cab and trailer make a tight angle that can easily trap any vehicle in its path between the cab and trailer.
Unfortunately, wide turn truck accidents are more common than you may believe. Sadly, when these types of truck accidents occur, the occupants of other vehicles are often the ones who suffer traumatic injuries. Common injuries sustained in wide turn accidents include:
- Fractures and broken bones
- Head injuries, including traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), concussions, and closed head injuries
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Amputations
- Spinal cord injuries that can result in paralysis
- Internal injuries and bleeding
- Burn injuries
Because the damages from a wide turn truck crash can reach into the hundreds of thousands of dollars, it is important to consult with a Los Angeles truck accident attorney as quickly as possible following the accident. You need someone on your side who understands truck accidents and who will fight for your right to receive full compensation for your injuries.
Causes of California Wide Turn Truck Accidents
Many wide turn truck accidents are the result of truck driver error. Driving a large vehicle is much different from operating a passenger vehicle. Truck drivers require weeks of training to operate a truck safely. Furthermore, drivers require numerous hours behind the wheel of the truck to learn how to safely make turns before they should be permitted to drive alone or on the open road.
Unfortunately, many truck drivers do not have the training or experience to operate a truck. Some truck companies hire inexperienced drivers to save money, and they fail to properly train these drivers before placing them behind the wheel of a large truck. Therefore, the driver and the company may be liable for a wide turn truck accident.
In addition to driver inexperience and improper training, other causes of wide turn truck accidents include:
- Distracted driving, including texting while driving, talking on a cell phone, reading, and eating
- Speeding, reckless driving, and failing to yield the right of way
- Failing to check blind spots
- Improperly functioning or broken lights, mirrors, and signals
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Driver fatigue or drowsy driving
- Being unfamiliar with the area or roads
Regardless of the cause of a truck accident, the consequences can be devastating for the victims. However, you can get help by contacting a California truck accident lawyer for a free consultation.
Other Drivers Must Be Careful
Not all truck accidents are caused by truck drivers or parties associated with the truck. Some wide turn truck accidents are due to other drivers cutting the truck off or not paying attention to their driving. When you see a commercial truck, big rig, 18-wheeler, tractor-trailer, or other large vehicle making a turn, fall back and allow the truck plenty of room for the maneuver. Never try to go about the truck on the left or cut the truck off on the right because you may become trapped under the trailer or crushed by the cab.
Have You Been Injured in a Wide Turn Truck Accident?
We are here to help. You can request a free consultation with an experienced truck accident lawyer by contacting Torem & Associates by telephone at (888) 500-5000or by using the contact form on our website.
Categories: