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5001 SW 9th St
Des Moines, Iowa 50315
Iowa / Nebraska Semi-truck Accident Lawyer — Truck Driver Error
Truck driver error is a leading cause of catastrophic accidents on our roadways. The Iowa and Nebraska semi-truck accident lawyer at our firm can pursue compensation if truck driver error contributed to your collision.
Examples of Truck Driver Error
Examples of Truck Driver Error
Truck drivers are responsible for safely operating vehicles that can weigh 80,000 pounds or more, traveling through sometimes difficult terrain, steep inclines, inclement weather, and an array of other conditions. This can be challenging for the average driver in a much smaller car, let alone a massive trailer-truck. This makes it imperative that the operators of commercial vehicles exercise extreme caution at all times. When negligence and mistakes occur, they can lead to fatal accidents. Some examples of truck driver error include:
Distractions
Typical distractions, such as using a cell phone, changing the radio dial, eating, and drinking, can take a truck driver's eyes off the road and increase the odds of crashing. These distractions are common causes of truck driver error.
Tailgating
Traveling dangerously close to other cars can prevent a truck driver from braking or maneuvering in time to avoid a deadly collision.
Failure to Use or Install Blind Spot Mirrors
There are a number of blind spots, particularly to the sides and rear of commercial vehicles, which truck drivers need to frequently check. The absence of these mirrors can inhibit a driver's awareness of other cars.
Speeding
Truck drivers who exceed the speed limits posted for large vehicles are one of the most frequent causes of trucking accidents
Improper Braking
Truck drivers have certain regulations on how to safely apply the brakes in such large vehicles, particularly on steep hills. Failure to brake properly can lead to malfunctioning braking systems and decreased maneuverability of the vehicle.
Dangerous Lane Changes
Rapid lane shifts can cause other cars to lose control or even collide with a large truck.
Improper Loading or Overloading of Cargo
Drivers who do not follow regulations concerning the proper loading and restraining of cargo risk jackknifing, decreased maneuverability, and causing debris to fall off the truck and into oncoming traffic.
Failure to Signal
The standard laws of the road apply to truck drivers as well as drivers of average-size cars. A truck driver's failure to signal when turning or changing lanes can lead to a massive collision.
If you have been injured in a truck collision, contact our Nebraska and Iowa-area semi-truck accident lawyer. Truck driver error and other instances of negligence on the part of drivers and trucking companies may make you eligible for financial compensation for the damages you have incurred.
Driver Expectations
According to federal law, a truck driver and the company managing the truck must follow a number of rules to ensure the safe operation and maintenance of the vehicle. Some of these rules include:
- Driver must have a Longer Combination Vehicle (LCV) license
- Driver must not drive while ill or fatigued
- Driver may not be under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs
- Driver must obey speed limits
- Driver must obey safety regulations regarding the loading of cargo
- Driver must perform periodic inspections
- Driver must drive with extreme caution in hazardous situations
- Driver must warn the public when a truck is stopped on the side of the road
Pursuing Compensation
In the event of a truck accident, there are often serious, and sometimes tragic, consequences. For the surviving victims, the future may entail painful rehabilitation, emotional suffering, and coping with the effects of losing a loved one. The Iowa and Nebraska-area semi-truck accident lawyer at Haas Law Offices, P.C. can help injury victims through this difficult time. Fredd J. Haas can pursue financial compensation to offset losses resulting from:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Mental anguish
- Funeral expenses
- Loss of companionship
Physical and emotional damage from a trucking accident can be an enormous strain on a victim’s finances. Our Iowa attorney is prepared to fight for just and comprehensive compensation.
Contact Our Iowa Semi-truck Accident Lawyer
Serving the Iowa and Nebraska area, semi-truck accident lawyer Fredd J. Haas is a diligent and compassionate attorney who will work tirelessly on your behalf. Truck driver error that leads to catastrophic accidents is negligent behavior and can render the driver liable for the financial damages that result. Contact Haas Law Offices, P.C. in Iowa and we will review your case to determine if truck driver error played a role in your accident.