Large trucks are complex machines with many interacting systems. When any one of a truck’s systems breaks down, the driver of the truck may lose control of the vehicle, increasing the risk of causing an accident. In some cases, a driver’s own conduct may overburden a particular system, causing it to give in under the excess pressure. It is for this reason that truck accidents are rarely as cut-and-dry as they seem in the immediate aftermath of the accident.
In fact, many truck accidents have multiple causes that only become apparent after an in-depth investigation is conducted. In some cases, it is the combination of several smaller errors or break-downs that allow for a situation where an accident can occur. For example, it is incredibly important for truck drivers to operate their vehicle in a safe manner. However, it is also important for drivers to ensure that all equipment is in proper working condition. Otherwise, even the stress from normal operation can have tragic results.
Fire Truck Rolls after Tire Blows Out
Earlier this month in Calvert County, a fire truck accident sent one man to the hospital in critical condition and moderately injured another. According to a local news report, the fire truck was responding to a residential structure fire just before eight in the morning when the accident occurred. Evidently, the fire truck was on its way to the scene when a tire blew out while the truck’s driver was attempting to negotiate a turn. The truck rolled over onto its side, and then completely upside down as it rolled off the road.
The truck was loaded with 3,000 pounds of water at the time of the accident, and it is unclear at this time how fast the driver was traveling leading up to the accident. The Calvert County Sheriff and county’s Crash Reconstruction Team both responded within minutes to assist in the investigation. One of the firefighters on board the truck was taken by helicopter to MedStar Washington Hospital Center and admitted in critical condition. The other firefighter was taken to a nearby hospital for a routine examination. At this point, both are expected to recover.
The cause of the accident remains under investigation, although authorities believe that a blown tire was a significant factor in the accident.
Have You Been Involved 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. It may seem that the cause of the accident is a mystery, but with the assistance of a dedicated team of attorneys and investigators, potential liability may be discovered. The skilled personal injury and wrongful death attorneys at the Maryland-based law firm of Lebowitz & Mzhen Personal Injury Lawyers have decades of experience representing clients in all types of truck accident cases. Call 410-654-3600 today to schedule your free consultation with a dedicated injury attorney.
More Blog Posts:
Truck Accidents Caused by Government Agencies, Employees, or Contractors, Maryland Trucking Accident Lawyer Blog, published February 24, 2017.
The Dangers of Inattentive or Distracted Truck Drivers, Maryland Trucking Accident Lawyer Blog, published March 8, 2017.