Truck accidents are very dangerous and can cause life-threatening injuries to those involved. These accidents tend to be caused by negligent driving. While this is true, they can also happen due to inclement weather, such as rain, snow, fog, or even wind. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), winds greater than 25 miles per hour can impact a truck driver’s ability to control the vehicle. Trucks have a large surface area and wind resistance can build up on one side, causing it to tip on highways, bridges, overpasses, and open prairies. It is important for truck drivers to be aware of these risks so that they can work to prevent accidents. Continue reading below to learn more.
What are Causes of Wind-Related Truck Accidents?
Strong winds can increase the chances of a truck accident in many ways, including the following:
- High crosswinds: When there is a strong gust of wind, it can cause the truck to sway or tip while traveling.
- Improperly loaded cargo: If the cargo on the truck is not loaded correctly, the contents can shift and cause an uneven weight distribution in the truck. This can affect the driver’s ability to navigate during high winds.
- Failure to take appropriate action for weather conditions: Truck drivers are required to stay up to date on the weather so they can implement the right safety precautions. This can include slowing down to a safe speed, pulling over until conditions improve, planning an alternative route, etc.
What Types of Accidents are Caused by Strong Winds?
There are many types of accidents that can be caused by strong winds, such as:
- Rollover accidents: If winds hit a truck, it can cause the driver to lose control and roll the vehicle over on its side. If this happens on a busy highway, it can crush other passenger vehicles on the road.
- Underride accidents: If a truck driver hits the brakes to control the vehicle after being hit by wind, a vehicle close behind can crash into the rear and slide underneath.
- Jackknife accidents: When a driver hits the brakes too hard and the truck folds in on itself, forming a 90-degree angle.
- Lost load accidents: Improperly loaded cargo can come loose and fall out of the trail onto the road, causing accidents.
What do I do if I’m Injured in a Truck Accident?
Truck accidents can cause serious, life-changing injuries. This can include back and neck injuries, spinal cord injuries, head and brain injuries, serious injuries, burns, amputation, disfigurement, internal injuries, etc. If a person sustains any of these injuries during an accident, they can pursue legal action by filing a personal injury claim to recover compensation. During this time, they must prove negligence took place and directly caused their injuries. This can be done by gathering evidence such as medical documentation of the injuries, pictures or video of the scene, witness testimonies, etc.
Contact our Firm
If you have been injured in a New York City personal injury accident, Swerling Law is here to help. Our firm understands the challenges that many people face after being hurt in an accident and is prepared to help you receive an award of significant compensation to ease some of your burdens. To schedule a consultation with an experienced construction site accident attorney in New York City, contact Swerling Law today.
