They seem to be everywhere, large semi trucks that can tip the scales at 80,000 pounds. They’re referred to as the backbone of our economy because, without transport trucks, goods would stop moving, and the engine of commerce would come to a screeching halt.
The unfortunate result of an ever growing number of 18 wheelers on our streets is that there are an increasing number of truck accidents and tractor-trailer accidents with devastating effects. By virtue of sheer size, tractor-trailer crashes that involve passenger vehicles have a very high fatally rate. A recent finding by the FMCSA, or Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, found that in 2013 alone there were nearly 4000 deaths, nationwide and a staggering 133,000 injuries on America’s roadways.
All accidents require a police investigation that looks to address the cause of the accident and to ascertain if any criminal charges should be brought against the parties involved. On the other side of the coin, insurance claims adjusters representing the trucking company seek to mitigate losses by looking at the role that other parties may have played in the accident.
Laws that govern the trucking industry and truck-related accidents in California can be complex. A lawyer that deals with truck accidents is aware of federal and state regulations as well as the particular issues that surround these types of cases. The serious nature of tractor-trailer crashes can be devastating to the victims and receiving prompt compensation is a vital part of dealing with loss, injury and pain and suffering.