Most of us get a little nervous when we’re stuck next to an 18-wheeler in heavy traffic, especially on routes like Highway 17, which are dangerous in their own right. When you’re involved in a semi-truck crash, it validates those worries.
Semi-trucks are several times larger than the average car, so when you’ve been hit by one, you can expect major injuries. You should also expect to call a Gilroy truck accident lawyer. Dealing with a personal injury claim without help can be traumatic and overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone.
With our lawyers on your side, you can expect a team that’s ready to help you get back on your feet and fight for the compensation you deserve. If you’ve been hit by an 18-wheeler, don’t hesitate to call us.
Causes of Gilroy Truck Accidents
Keeping an 18-wheeler on the road is no easy task. Semi-trucks tend to weigh several tons more than the average car, depending on the cargo they’re carrying. Dangerous substances like gasoline can add to the danger of an accident, but the heavier the truck is, the more difficult it can be to control.
Causes of truck accidents are varied, and any two-vehicle crash can be complex. Truck accidents, however, tend to fall into one of the following categories when it comes to cause:
- Driver Error – Truck drivers are human, and they often work under extreme conditions. They might have driven longer than recommended, for example. When this happens, they’re more likely to misjudge distances, drive too fast, or even fall asleep.
- Vehicle Problems – If the semi-truck is not properly maintained, there may be serious issues. Brake problems are among the worst. Trucks are not easy to stop, and they’re prone to jackknifing, causing lethal accidents.
- Environmental Problems – Potholes, narrow shoulders, and weather conditions can all make the road dangerous, and when a semi-truck is going too fast during these conditions, it can lead to serious consequences.
Truck Accidents and Fault
It may be listed on your accident report that the truck driver was the one who caused your truck crash in Gilroy. This isn’t the end of your search for the defendant in your claim, however.
Truck accidents aren’t just unique because of the risks 18-wheelers pose. They’re unique for the fact that the truck driver is, in fact, at work.
While they’re not at their worksite, truck drivers are acting in the interests of their employer. Under most conditions, the driver is the responsibility of the employer . In these cases, then, you might need to file against the employer, rather than the trucker.
When you’re dealing with fault, you need to be sure that you have the right defendant before you begin your claim, and we’re here to help with that. We understand how difficult finding fault can be, and we’re ready to help
Connect with a Gilroy Semi-Truck Accident Attorney
When you’ve been injured in a truck crash, you may need help getting the full compensation you deserve. When that happens, an attorney from Golden State Lawyers, APC can guide you through, no matter how complicated your case may be.
If you’re still unsure about our services and how we can help you, don’t hesitate to reach out to a Gilroy truck accident lawyer. We offer free consultations so you know exactly what we can do for you before you ever sign anything. Call us at 408-279-4222 or send us a message through our online contact form below.