The trucking industry is essential to moving products and goods, both within California and throughout the United States. The vast number of items being shipped to and from various locations means an overall increase in the number of tractor trailers and semi-trucks on the road, which can be potentially hazardous to drivers in general. At the Quirk Law Firm LLP, our accident attorney in Ventura County knows the devastating impact these accidents can have on victims, including injuries that are often severe and even life threatening. Whether you are a truck driver or a motorist, it is important to be aware of the potential risks these accidents pose, as well the most frequent types of accidents that occur in our area.
Ventura Truck Accident Statistics
According to the latest truck accident statistics from the California Highway Patrol, roughly 300 people die each year in accidents involving trucks throughout the state, while more than 5,000 others end up with serious, potentially debilitating injuries. Close to 100 of these accidents occur directly in Ventura County, and your odds of being involved in a trucking accident increase dramatically if you travel in or around Los Angeles for work or school. Our automobile accident lawyer in Ventura has extensive experience in handling these types of accidents, and understands the serious ramifications that can result. Cars are no match for the sheer weight and bulk of a big rig, and it is often motor vehicle drivers themselves who suffer the greatest injuries.
Truck Accident Causes
While reports from the CA Highway Patrol indicate that truck driver behaviors, such as driving too fast, poor navigation of turns, and driving under the influence can be a contributing factor in California trucking accidents, our truck accident attorney in Ventura knows there are often other issues that can be to blame.
According to the Ryder Systems, Inc., one of the leaders in the commercial trucking industry, in addition to driver error, other conditions that can result in trucking accidents include:
- Poor truck maintenance, resulting in damaged or improperly inflated tires, faulty brake systems, and inadequate repairs;
- Improper loading practices, resulting in exceeded weight restrictions and cargo shifting;
- Negligent company policies, requiring operators to meet high quotas or travel excessive distances in unrealistic time frames, resulting in poor driver performance and the likelihood of errors or drivers falling asleep behind the wheel.
Any of the above conditions can result in deadly accidents, both for motorists and the truck driver involved. In these situations, our wrongful death attorney can advise you on how to hold the trucking company responsible for the losses you have suffered.
Take Immediate Action & Preserve Event Data Recorder Information
Most commercial vehicles have Event Data Recorders and/or DriveCam Systems. Event Data Recorders and DriveCam Systems are black boxes that record information related to vehicle accidents. If you have been injured as a result of a crash with a commercial vehicle, you should act promptly to preserve this information. Quirk Law Firm, LLP has successfully recovered Event Data Recorder information leading to muti-million dollar settlements.
Contact Our Office Today
If you or someone you care about has been injured or killed as the result of a trucking accident, get the experienced legal representation you need and contact the Quirk Law Firm. LLP today. We can assist you in negotiations with the insurance company for the at fault driver, while our Ventura trial attorney pursues legal against the trucking company itself.
