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Seattle Truck Accident Attorneys
Help from Seattle-area truck accident attorneys after you’ve been injured in a crash
If you or a loved one has been involved in a trucking accident, you are likely facing massive medical bills and time lost from work. The aftermath of a collision with a commercial truck often involves complex legal challenges, and navigating the intricacies of these cases requires a seasoned legal advocate. Here at Smith McBroom, our Seattle truck accident attorneys have experience in providing skilled representation for victims of trucking accidents.
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How often do truck accidents happen?
The National Safety Council maintains a variety of statistics about truck accidents. They report:
In 2021, 5,700 large trucks were involved in a fatal crash, an 18% increase from 2020 and a 49% increase in the last 10 years. The involvement rate per 100 million large-truck miles traveled is up 7% from 2020, and up 22% in the last 10 years. Large trucks are defined as any medium or heavy truck, not including buses and motor homes, with a gross vehicle weight rating greater than 10,000 pounds. Both commercial and non-commercial vehicles are included.
In 2021, 117,300 trucks were involved in crashes resulting in an injury. Large trucks also account for nine percent of all vehicles involved in fatal crashes.
What are common causes of Seattle truck accidents?
Truck accidents can result from a variety of factors, often involving a combination of elements. Given the size and weight of commercial trucks, the consequences of these accidents can be severe. Here are several common causes of truck accidents:
- Driver fatigue. Long hours on the road and tight schedules can lead to driver fatigue. Fatigued truck drivers may have slower reaction times and impaired decision-making, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Distracted driving. Distractions such as texting, using mobile phones, eating, or adjusting in-cab technologies can divert a truck driver's attention from the road, leading to accidents.
- Speeding. Driving at excessive speeds, especially given the size and weight of trucks, reduces a driver's ability to react to changing road conditions and increases the severity of accidents.
- Driving under the influence. Truck drivers operating their vehicles under the influence of alcohol or drugs pose a serious hazard on the road.
- Inadequate training. Insufficient training in handling large commercial vehicles can lead to mistakes in judgment and operation, contributing to accidents.
- Improper loading or cargo securement. Poorly loaded or unsecured cargo can shift during transit, causing the truck to become unbalanced and increasing the risk of accidents.
- Mechanical failures. Defective or poorly maintained truck components, such as brakes or tires, can contribute to accidents. Regular maintenance is crucial to prevent mechanical failures.
- Weather conditions. Adverse weather conditions, such as rain, snow, or ice, can make roads slippery and reduce visibility, making truck accidents more likely.
- Unsafe lane changes. Failing to signal or check blind spots before changing lanes can result in collisions with other vehicles or even underride accidents.
- Reckless driving. Aggressive driving behaviors, such as tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic, and ignoring traffic signals, can lead to accidents.
- Poor road conditions. Potholes, construction zones, and uneven road surfaces can be challenging for truck drivers to navigate, contributing to accidents.
- Inadequate supervision by trucking companies. Companies that fail to properly supervise and monitor their drivers, enforce safety protocols, or address concerns promptly may contribute to accidents.
Truck accidents can cause catastrophic injuries, the type that affect a person for the rest of their life.
What are common Seattle truck accident injuries?
Truck accidents can result in severe and often life-changing injuries due to the size and weight disparity between commercial trucks and smaller vehicles. The nature of these injuries can vary, but some common truck accident injuries include:
- Whiplash
- Fractures and broken bones
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries
- Internal injuries
- Chest injuries
- Soft tissue injuries
- Burn injuries
- Traumatic amputations
- Crush injuries
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Individuals involved in truck accidents must seek immediate medical attention, even if injuries may not be immediately apparent. Prompt medical evaluation helps in diagnosing and treating injuries early, improving the chances of a full recovery. If you or someone you know has been involved in a truck accident, consulting with a healthcare professional and seeking advice from a Seattle truck accident lawyer promptly is recommended.
Who is liable for my Seattle truck accident?
Determining liability in a truck accident involves a thorough investigation to identify the party or parties responsible for the collision. Liability can vary based on the specific circumstances of the accident. Here are some common parties that may be liable for a truck accident:
- Truck driver. If the truck driver's negligence, such as speeding, distracted driving, driving under the influence, or violating traffic laws, contributed to the accident, the driver may be held liable.
- Trucking company. Trucking companies can be held liable if they were negligent in hiring, training, or supervising their drivers. Additionally, if the company failed to maintain the truck properly or if it encouraged drivers to violate regulations, it may share liability.
- Truck owner. In some cases, the truck driver may not own the truck they are driving. If the truck is owned by a separate entity, that entity may be liable for maintenance issues or defects contributing to the accident.
- Vehicle manufacturer. If a defect in the truck's design or manufacturing played a role in the accident, the manufacturer may be held liable for the resulting injuries and damages.
- Cargo loading company. Improper loading or securing of cargo can lead to accidents. If a separate company is responsible for loading the truck, they may be liable if their actions contributed to the collision.
- Maintenance providers. Companies or individuals responsible for maintaining the truck may be held liable if inadequate maintenance, repairs, or inspections led to mechanical failures contributing to the accident.
- Government entities. If the accident was caused by poor road conditions, inadequate signage, or other factors related to government responsibility, a claim may be made against the relevant government entity.
- Other negligent drivers. In multi-vehicle accidents involving trucks, other drivers on the road may share liability. This could include passenger vehicle drivers, motorcyclists, or other commercial drivers who acted negligently.
- Manufacturers of truck parts. If a specific part of the truck, such as brakes or tires, malfunctions due to a defect, the manufacturer of that part may be held liable.
It's important to note that liability is often not clear-cut, and multiple parties may share responsibility for an accident. Investigations typically involve reviewing evidence such as accident reports, witness statements, vehicle maintenance records, and electronic data from the truck (if available). Consult with a skilled Seattle truck accident attorney for a thorough analysis of your case and to determine the parties that may be held liable for your injuries and damages.
Do you have a Seattle truck accident attorney near me?
Smith McBroom is located at 16400 Southcenter Parkway, Suite #210, Seattle, Washington, 98188. We’re right off I-5 and I-405, near Southcenter Mall. There is a bus stop near our office, and we offer free on-site parking.
Get help from our Seattle-area truck accident lawyers today
Don't navigate the aftermath of a truck accident alone. Schedule a free consultation with our Seattle truck accident attorneys to discuss the specifics of your case. We'll provide personalized guidance, outline your legal options, and work tirelessly to secure the justice you deserve. Call our Tukwila-based offices or fill out our contact form today to schedule a meeting with one of our experienced attorneys.