A semi tractor-trailer recently caused multiple accidents on I-94 near Milwaukee in the early morning hours of the day. The semi, loaded with over 50, 000 pounds of grain, rolled over in the southbound lanes of I-94 near College Avenue. The truck grazed a Milwaukee County snowplow and caused a light pole to fall across the northbound lanes. Another semi tractor-trailer and a truck hit the pole.
Truck Accident Statistics
Large truck accidents—such as those involving semi tractor-trailers, dump trucks, and other large transport or construction vehicles—are an unavoidable problem on the road. In 2013, there were over 7, 000 large truck crashes, with 85 that led to fatalities and 2, 140 that caused injuries. In 2012 there were 5, 882 accidents that resulted in 71 deaths and 1, 800 documented injuries. The average from 2008 to 2012 was 6, 378 large truck accidents, 63 deaths, and 2, 031 injuries.
While the number of accidents is still high, large trucks are now safer, and the number of fatalities has decreased. Nationwide there were approximately 390, 000 big-rig accidents between 2009 and 2013, but there have only been 1.42 fatal accidents per 100 million miles traveled. This is a rate similar to passenger vehicles.
Causes of Large Truck Accidents
Tractor-trailers are prone to accidents for several reasons. The biggest cause for these accidents is unsafe driving. Speeding, aggressive driving, distracted driving, and sleepy driving can all cause accidents. Drivers, however, are under incredible pressure to transport goods over long distances, and in extremely short periods of time.
Furthermore, drivers, especially those working for smaller companies, often do not receive proper training for fixing a problem with a truck, handling a big rig in bad weather, or noticing when an issue requires immediate or special attention.
Additionally, driver fitness is becoming an increased focus of truck-related policy making. For example, in Pennsylvania, there are now driver-only inspections at traffic stops. State troopers have been instructed to review drivers' log books and other relevant paperwork to ensure a driver is in an appropriate condition to drive.
Truck Accident Accountability
Large truck accidents typically occur on major transport routes and highways, as these roadways serve as popular transit routes for large truck transports. However, accidents with semis and other large trucks can happen anywhere. If you are involved in an accident with a large truck, you may be entitled to damages that cover the following:
- Medical bills;
- Property damage;
- Rehabilitation;
- Long-term care;
- Loss of income;
- Pain and suffering; and
- Wrongful death.
In addition to holding drivers accountable for adhering to trucking regulations, , you may also hold a driver accountable for injuries caused by his or her poor decision-making while driving.
Contact an Experienced Wisconsin Truck Accident Attorney
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident with a truck or semi tractor-trailer, contact one of our experienced Appleton truck accident lawyers and Green Bay truck accident lawyers at [[title]] today. With offices located in Appleton, Green Bay, and Oshkosh, we are prepared to aggressively advocate on your behalf to ensure you recover the compensation you deserve.