When a large commercial truck is involved in a Maryland truck accident, a chain of events is set in motion that has the potential to result in a major catastrophe. Semi-trucks and other large transport vehicles are designed to carry tens of thousands of pounds of cargo across the nation’s highways. Often, this means traveling on hundreds of miles of open road. Unfortunately, the very design that makes trucks an efficient means of transporting goods also leaves them ill-suited to adeptly respond to sudden changes in the traffic pattern.
One example of a truck driver’s compromised ability to maneuver a large rig is when an accident occurs a short distance ahead of the truck driver. Due to the significant weight of these large trucks – even when they are not fully loaded – a truck driver has a greatly increased stopping distance when traveling at highway speeds. Additionally, the length of a semi-truck prevents a driver from making any spur-of-the-moment evasive maneuvers to avoid an obstacle ahead. When combined, these factors greatly increase the chance of a chain reaction truck accident.
All of this is to say that truck drivers have a difficult job. However, that does not reduce their responsibility to safely operate their vehicle at all times. This may mean slowing down below the posted speed limit or increasing their following distance to beyond what they normally would consider a safe distance. When a truck driver fails to take necessary precautions and ends up causing or contributing to a chain reaction truck accident, both the driver and the driver’s employer may potentially be held liable.
Truck Driver Dies in Chain Reaction Truck Accident
Earlier this month, one man was killed and several others seriously injured in a chain reaction truck accident that occurred on a highway in California. According to a local news report covering the tragic accident, the chain reaction began when a sedan crashed into a semi-truck. The semi-truck driver lost control of the truck, which eventually came to a rest in the middle of the highway.
A short time later, another truck approached the wreckage and was unable to stop. The man driving the second semi-truck died as a result of the injuries he sustained in the crash.
Have You Been Injured in a Maryland Truck Accident?
If you or a loved one has recently been injured in a Maryland truck accident, you may be entitled to monetary compensation. Truck accidents should not occur when drivers are following the posted traffic laws and operating their vehicles in a safe manner. At the Maryland personal injury law firm of Lebowitz & Mzhen Personal Injury Lawyers, we have extensive experience handling truck accident cases, and we know what it takes to succeed on our clients’ behalf. Call 410-654-3600 to schedule a free consultation with an attorney today. Calling is free, and we will not send you a bill for our services unless we are able to help you recover what you are entitled to receive.
More Blog Posts:
The Destructive Potential of Chain-Reaction Truck Accidents in Maryland, Maryland Trucking Accident Lawyer Blog, published September 5, 2017.
The Dangers of Maryland Dirt Roads, Maryland Trucking Accident Lawyer Blog, published August 3, 2017.