Truck Accident Lawyers

Rollover Accidents

Rollover accidents are a significant risk for people involved in accidents involving 18-wheelers. This type of accident has the unique situation of being exceptionally dangerous to both the driver of the smaller vehicle and the 18-wheeler. In rollover accidents, big-rig drivers are at risk for serious injuries and death because of the weakness of the cab.

Trucks can rollover for a variety of reasons. They can experience a tire blow out on the tire that pulls the trailer out of control which then causes it to tip over. Another cause is improper load distribution. While these causes may have something to do with the trucker, he or she pays the price. The structural weaknesses of most American-made truck cabs increase the chances that the driver will be crushed.

A study conducted by Technical Services Forensic Engineering supports that roughly 55% of all semi-truck driver fatalities occur in rollover accidents. This is based on the estimate that 600 drivers die every year in highway accidents. Cab failure is not involved as a cause of death in only 31% of driver fatalities.

Studies have shown that big rigs roll extremely easily. They can roll at speeds as low as 5 miles per hour. It is possible to generate the number of G’s necessary to roll by going around a curve too quickly, striking the tires on a curb while turning, or by out tracking the tires when turning.

Truck cabs are not structurally strong enough to withstand the force of the rollover. Without a high trailer or load, the roof will collapse down to the engine line, crushing the driver along the way. Drivers can be seriously injured or killed if they stay in the cab. In addition, drivers have the possibility of being seriously injured or killed if they try to get out of the cab. It’s a no-win situation.

Contact a Truck Accident Lawyer

If you have been injured in an accident involving a truck accident, contact the truck accident lawyers of Williams Kherkher at 1-866-950-9000 to discuss your case.