Common Truck Accident Scenarios in Alaska
The trucking industry is an essential component of the US economy and a crucial resource for getting essential supplies to Alaskans from the mainland. Statistics from the American Trucking Association reveal that there are almost 4 million Class 8 large commercial trucks in operation, transporting 11.84 billion tons of freight annually. That amounts to 72.5% of the nation’s freight being transported via semis, 18-wheelers, and other commercial vehicles. These large trucks comprise approximately 13% of all motor vehicles on US roadways.
Unfortunately, this massive volume and activity means that truck collisions are a significant threat to motorists. These incidents are typically the result of driver carelessness, and an Anchorage truck accident attorney can explain the role of negligence in the legal process. Still, despite the specific underlying factors, some of the most common causes of truck crashes include:
- Rear-End Crashes: Due to their massive size and heavy cargo they may be carrying, large commercial vehicles take longer to slow and stop. As a result, a semi may not be able to avoid a rear-end accident when a passenger vehicle pulls out or changes lanes in front of it.
- Jackknife Collisions: The two-piece configuration of a tractor-trailer means that a hasty maneuver or applying the brakes too quickly can send both out of control. In a jackknife crash, the trailer swings out to a 90-degree angle with the tractor. In this precarious position, the commercial vehicle can overturn or roll onto its side.
- Roll-Over Accidents: Besides jackknife collisions, there are other factors that can lead to the tractor, trailer – or both – to roll. Snowy, wet, and slick roadways can become treacherous unless the truck driver takes precautions.
- Underride Crashes: One of the deadliest types of truck collisions occurs because of the higher profile of commercial vehicles compared to smaller automobiles. When a car or light truck collides with the tractor or trailer, the point of impact is at the level of the windshield. The passenger vehicle can become stuck under the truck, possibly leading to a horrific decapitation.
- Accidents Caused by Blind Spots: Due to their length, with trailer, commercial trucks have enormous blind spots. The operator may not even see a motorist who follows too closely, so the driver could make a dangerous maneuver.
- Truck Tire Blowouts: The nickname “18-wheeler” says it all when it comes to tire issues, so you can see how a lot can go wrong with a blowout. A single tire failing can snowball into an extremely violent collision.
Our Anchorage, AK Truck Accident Lawyers Fight for Victims’ Rights
No matter what the causes or contributing factors, you have legal remedies after being involved in a truck crash that was not your fault. You may be able to recover compensation for your medical costs, lost income, pain and suffering, and other losses. To learn more about your options, please contact Power & Power Law to set up a no-cost consultation at our offices in Anchorage, Alaska. We can explain the legal process after reviewing your circumstances.