A truck driver was hospitalized with serious injuries after a wreck on Interstate 10. According to the SunHerald, the man was driving a pest control truck in the eastbound lane when it left the road and rolled several times.
Police closed the interstate for 45 minutes while emergency workers attended to the scene. The Department of Environmental Quality then attended the scene to clean up the chemicals spilled during the accident.
Emergency workers transported the driver to the hospital with life-threatening injuries. Law enforcement officials are still unsure about what caused the crash.
Who Might Be Liable for Injuries in a Truck Accident?
Personal-injury claims that stem from commercial truck wrecks are often more complicated than those involving passenger vehicles. There may be several liable parties including the driver, truck owner, a mechanic, the vehicle manufacturer or the fleet manager.
If you were injured in a truck crash, it is critical that you contact an accident lawyer to discuss your case. A small oversight could threaten the success of your claim or reduce your final recovery.
If the wreck happened in Louisiana, turn to Morris Bart, LLC. An accident lawyer in Baton Rouge will evaluate your case, interview witnesses and guide you through the claims process. Schedule a free initial consultation today by calling 800-537-8185.
Let’s take a look at four tips to help commercial truckers avoid wrecks:
For a free legal consultation, call 800-537-8185
Do Not Tailgate Other Vehicles
Large truck accidents are often rear-enders in which the commercial vehicle hits a car in front. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, these crashes happen because large CMVs require a longer stopping distance due to their size and weight.
If you drive a truck, remember to leave plenty of distance between your vehicle and the leading car. You should double that distance in adverse weather.
Reduce Your Speed
Driving too fast for the conditions is a leading cause of truck accidents. It is not always safe to follow the speed limit – especially when you are driving a heavy vehicle that requires a significant distance to stop.
CMV operators should reduce their speed in these conditions:
- Wet roads;
- Snow and ice;
- Reduced visibility;
- Construction zones;
- Uneven roads;
- Curves;
- Intersections;
- And heavy traffic.
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Remove Distractions
The vast majority of motor-vehicle accidents – 94 percent – involve human error. One of the most common and easily avoidable mistakes is engaging in distracted driving.
Be sure to avoid these common distractions when you are behind the wheel:
- Texting;
- Eating and drinking;
- Adjusting the radio;
- Gawking at outside distractions such as billboards and accident scenes;
- And talking to passengers.
According to the FMCSA, a 2009 study found that 71 percent of large truck accidents happened when the driver was distracted.
Check Your Blind Spots
Some of the most serious truck wrecks could have been avoided if the drivers had checked their blind spots. This is particularly important when changing lanes and turning.
Commercial truckers are some of the most experienced drivers on Louisiana roads. Unfortunately, all it takes is one mistake to cause a devastating crash.
If you were injured in a truck wreck, contact a Baton Rouge auto accident lawyer from Morris Bart, LLC. Call 800-537-8185 to schedule a free initial consultation.
Questions?Call 800-537-8185
to find a Morris Bart office near you.
