Accidents with large trucks cause physical and financial pain

On Behalf of | Dec 5, 2016 | Motor Vehicle Accidents

Missoula occupies a unique and strategic place in the state of Montana. Its position on Interstate 90 makes it the gateway to the Pacific Northwest for commercial traffic, and the first stop for coastal truckers heading for the mid-west.

Given the fact that a high amount of all commercial truck traffic in Montana takes place on the Interstates, odds are that many large trucks and tractor trailers roll through Missoula every year. With so many trucks moving through the community, there are bound to be accidents involving trucks and passenger vehicles.

In fact, between 2001 and 2012, nearly 3,000 people were killed or injured in accidents involving large truck or busses in Montana.

Why are large truck accidents so serious?

Commercial vehicles are efficient transporters of cargo because of their size. But it’s that size which makes them so dangerous. Despite being operated by some of the best-trained drivers on the road, commercial vehicles may be a threat to you, in part because even a minor collision can cause major damage to a small car or other passenger vehicle. Additionally, your vehicle may be difficult for truck drivers to spot in their mirrors. Big, heavy trucks also need extra room to maneuver in bad weather or heavy traffic.

Truck drivers are human, though, and they do make mistakes. Some of the top causes of truck accidents resulting from driver error are:

  • Fatigue
  • Distracted driving
  • Impaired driving
  • Excessive speed

What can happen in an accident with a large truck

Any vehicle accident can have serious consequences, but a crash involving a truck may be especially devastating to you. You might experience any of these results after being in a truck accident:

  • Long-term injury
  • Extended hospital stays
  • Expensive medication
  • Ongoing need for physiotherapy or other rehabilitation
  • Lost time at work

So, while you may be statistically less likely to be in an accident with a commercial truck than with other types of vehicles, the potential for substantial loss and injury is much greater.

It is worth noting that many truck drivers are employees of large companies. These companies have the resources to fight accident claims from victims. Many people accept minimal compensation because they cannot fight back or don’t know that they may be able to do better.

A personal injury lawyer with a proven track record of success with accident insurance claims may be able to help you get the compensation you really deserve. Letting an experienced professional take care of your case will allow you to get back to taking care of yourself.

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