Truck accidents can cause significant damage and severe injuries. These incidents are considerably more dangerous due to the sheer size and weight of commercial trucks. Common types include delivery vehicles and tractor-trailers.
Many Raleigh truck accidents result from drivers failing to notice road hazards. Sometimes, accidents occur when a smaller vehicle follows a large truck too closely, unable to react to sudden lane changes. Other times, poor truck maintenance and overloading by companies contribute to these collisions.
Injuries from truck accidents need specialized treatment. Seek immediate medical help following an accident to prevent complications. At Apex Orthopaedics Spine & Neurology in Raleigh, we have experienced practitioners capable of managing various injuries resulting from truck accidents.
Contact us today at 704-412-3045, and let us help you start your recovery journey.
Raleigh Truck Accident Statistics
Truck drivers must follow stringent traffic laws concerning loading limits and speed regulations. Despite these rules, negligent behaviors persist, leading to accidents.
North Carolina reports thousands of truck accidents annually, causing numerous injuries and fatalities.
- Over 16,000 truck crashes in 2021.
- More than 3,800 injuries and 150 fatalities in 2021.
- Fatalities involving trucks increased by 13% since 2021.
- Nearly 50% of fatal and severe injuries involve large trucks.
- Every 16 minutes, a person in the U.S. dies due to a truck accident, with over 90,000 people injured annually.
- Tractor-trailer accidents are thrice as deadly as car accidents.
These statistics showcase the serious nature of truck accidents in Raleigh, emphasizing the need for effective solutions.
Common Causes of Semi-Truck Accidents
Several factors contribute to truck accidents in Raleigh. While many blame the drivers, companies’ negligence also plays a role. Here are some common causes.
Distracted Driving
Truck drivers often engage in activities like using mobile phones, eating, or handling navigation, leading to distractions. Such distractions decrease their reaction time in emergencies.
Adverse Weather Conditions
Foul weather such as heavy rainfall, snow, strong winds, or fog can impair drivers’ visibility and control over the vehicle, resulting in accidents. Slippery roads further complicate handling, making trucks more prone to skidding or toppling.
Poor Truck Maintenance
Neglecting truck maintenance jeopardizes road safety. Issues like brake failures, tire blowouts, and steering problems arise when companies overlook regular inspections and servicing.
Jackknife Accidents
Trucks with attached trailers may skid, causing the trailer to swing out and form a 90-degree angle. This situation, known as jackknifing, can obstruct multiple lanes and lead to severe accidents. Contributing factors include speeding, poor road conditions, and incorrect braking.
Driving Under the Influence
Truck drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs pose significant risks on the road. Impaired judgment due to intoxication increases the likelihood of accidents.
Driver Fatigue
Long hauls with inadequate rest due to tight schedules often leave drivers fatigued. Sleep-deprived drivers may doze off while driving, leading to accidents.
Overloading and Improper Loading
Overloading surpasses the truck’s recommended capacity, while improper loading leads to unbalanced loads, causing swaying or leaning. Both pose significant risks on the road.
Speeding
Drivers often speed to meet delivery deadlines or cross borders on time. Excessive speed reduces their reaction time, making accidents more likely.
Steps to Take After a Truck Accident in Raleigh
The aftermath of a Raleigh truck accident can be overwhelming. Knowing the steps to follow aids in safeguarding your rights and health.
Report the Accident
Call the police to document the accident scene. A detailed report helps establish fault and strengthens your compensation claim.
Seek Medical Attention
Immediate medical evaluation is crucial, as some injuries show delayed symptoms. A report from a healthcare professional substantiates your insurance claim and verifies injury severity.
Collect Evidence
Gather details about the accident, including eyewitness accounts, photographs, and videos. Documenting the sequence of events helps establish liability.
Interact Cautiously with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies may approach you for statements or settlements. Avoid sharing specific details without consulting your lawyer. Posting about the accident publicly or on social media can jeopardize your claim.
Contact a Raleigh Truck Accident Lawyer
Engage a personal injury lawyer specializing in truck accidents. They handle insurance negotiations and gather essential evidence, ensuring your rights are upheld and represented effectively in court if necessary.
Types of Injuries Caused by Truck Accidents
Truck accidents often result in severe injuries due to the vehicles’ mass. Here are some common injuries:
Whiplash
Whiplash occurs when the neck experiences rapid back-and-forth motion, damaging muscles, ligaments, and the brain. This injury can lead to chronic pain and discomfort.
Brain Injuries
Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) occur when the head impacts a hard surface. Symptoms may manifest immediately or later, including headaches, confusion, dizziness, and memory problems.
Broken Bones
Fractures can occur in various body parts, such as arms, legs, ribs, and shoulders. Treatment ranges from minor care to surgical intervention and rehabilitation for severe breaks.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Damage to muscles, tendons, and ligaments can cause significant mobility issues. Prompt treatment is essential to prevent long-term complications.
Emotional Trauma
Psychological injuries, such as anxiety, stress, and depression, often accompany physical injuries. Emotional support and therapy play crucial roles in recovery.
Compassionate Care After a Raleigh Truck Accident
Recovering from a truck accident often requires extensive care and rehabilitation. Conditions like broken bones or amputations necessitate relearning basic movements and adapting to lifestyle changes. Psychological support for emotional trauma, such as anxiety or stress, is equally important.
Apex Orthopaedics Spine & Neurology, located in Raleigh, offers compassionate and comprehensive care tailored to meet each patient’s needs. Our services include physical therapy, pain management, and orthopedic surgeries, ensuring a path to recovery.
We have experienced practitioners capable of managing various injuries resulting from Raleigh truck accidents. Contact us today at 704-412-3045, and let us help you start your recovery journey.