Deadliest Types of Truck Accidents in Alaska
When looking at the statistics on truck accidents in Alaska and the rest of the US, there are both high points and low marks in terms of trends. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) reports that the number of deadly truck crashes dropped 34% from 2005 to 2009. Unfortunately, this dip was followed by a spike of 52% in fatal collisions over the next 10 years. In addition, from 2009 to 2015, there was an increase of 17% in the number of people injured in truck accidents.
From their size, you can guess the amount of devastation when a semi, 18-wheeler, or other large commercial vehicle is involved in a collision. However, there are some types that are more horrific than others. An Anchorage truck accident attorney can assist with your legal remedies if you were hurt or lost a loved one, since the process can be extremely challenging.
Most Common Fatal Truck Crashes
The design of the tractor and trailer, weather, and road conditions may all have an impact on semi collisions. Plus, the type, weight, and size of the load being hauled are all issues in deadly truck accidents. When they occur, these factors often combine to cause fatal and catastrophic truck crashes. Examples include:
- Underride: When a lower-profile passenger vehicle slams into the trailer of an 18-wheeler, the front may become lodged underneath in an underride collision. These horrific crashes often cause amputations and decapitations.
- Jack Knife: The shape of a tractor and trailer form a “V” like a jack knife in a truck crash, usually due to the operator losing control over the rig’s speed.
- Rollovers: If a truck driver takes a curve too quickly or makes erratic lane changes, the weight of the cargo can shift and cause a rollover collision.
- Hazardous Materials Spills: Certain commercial vehicles are authorized to carry chemicals and other substances that could be extremely toxic if released in a truck crash. When occupants of other vehicles are exposed, fatalities may result.
Insurance Claims Challenges with Alaska Truck Accidents
Truck collision claims are similar to other traffic crashes in many ways, but there are some factors that increase the complexity. While trucks are covered by insurance policies, the coverage amount is far higher than a typical motorist policy. When serious injury or death results, the insurance company could be forced to pay out into the millions for a claim.
In such cases, the insurer will assign your claim to the most experienced, knowledgeable employees with instructions to deny or limit payment. You could encounter significant challenges, so legal help is critical.
Overcome Pitfalls With Help From an Alaska Truck Accident Lawyer
You can see that the stakes are high with truck crash cases because of the insurance details, so it is crucial to get legal counsel for help with your claim. For information on our services for accident victims, please contact Power & Power Law in Anchorage, AK. You can call 907-222-9990 or go online to set up a no-cost case review with an experienced Alaska truck crash attorney.