Why Are Tractor-Trailers Likely to Roll Over?

 Posted on December 26, 2024 in Truck Accidents

Chicagoland is home to various freight hubs and a high volume of tractor-trailer traffic. Although passenger vehicles sometimes roll over in collisions, the stakes can be higher in semi-truck rollover crashes. Nearby cars can be crushed, catastrophically injuring or killing occupants.

Why do tractor-trailers roll over so frequently? Is the truck driver always responsible, or could others share liability? If you are injured in a truck accident, working with an experienced Glenview, IL personal injury attorney for your compensation claim gives you multiple advantages.

Various Factors Contribute to Truck Rollover Accidents

Many tractor-trailers use enclosed trailers used for hauling goods. These trailers are usually between 48 and 53 feet long and 13.5 feet high. The floor of the trailer is 4 to 5 feet off ground level. A semi can legally weigh up to 80,000 pounds, although some trailers are overloaded. The trailer’s high center of gravity poses risks, and some conditions increase the danger:

• The cargo in a trailer must be balanced, distributed correctly, and secured to reduce the chance of shifting during transit. Shifting cargo can cause trucks to roll over.

• Mechanical or system failures, such as faulty brakes, tire blowouts, and steering issues, can cause loads to shift or the driver to lose control of the truck.

• Sharp curves, especially at higher speeds, often contribute to rollover crashes.

• Potholes, uneven pavement, and debris on roads can destabilize semis, potentially leading them to roll over.

• Negligent driver errors, including speeding, distracted driving, driving while drunk or high, and fatigued driving, can increase the chance of a rollover accident.

Although the truck driver may bear fault, other parties might contribute to causing rollovers. An accident investigation is crucial because you need to know whose insurance policy is liable for paying your claim. Several parties sometimes share the blame, and you may need to file multiple claims. However, you will need evidence. Your attorney’s investigative experience and resources can locate and preserve that supporting evidence.

Who Might Be Responsible for Truck Rollovers?

Along with the truck driver, several other parties could share fault, including:

• Government entities responsible for road design and maintenance

• Cargo loaders

• Mechanics

• Parts manufacturers

• Truck owners or leasing companies

• Other motorists

If you are injured or a loved one loses their life in a truck rollover accident, your damages can be extremely high. The higher your damages, the harder the liable insurers are likely to resist paying your claim.

What Are the Advantages of Working With a Skilled Attorney After a Truck Rollover Crash?

Whether you have a personal injury or wrongful death claim, you will probably face several complications during the process. The insurers may try to manipulate fault, offer fast and low settlements, or deny your claim. Your lawyer is your advocate, and we work hard to protect your best interests and maximize the damages you may receive. We will:

• Be sure that fault is accurately assigned

• Meticulously calculate all your eligible damages, which could include medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and pain and suffering

• Negotiate to reach a favorable settlement offer

• Take your case to trial if necessary

You need to put your life back together after your accident, so let us handle your legal issues.

Discuss Your Case With a Skilled Northbrook, IL Truck Accident Lawyer

When the stakes are high, you need effective legal representation you can rely on. Call Gruzmark Law, Ltd. at 847-729-7660 or contact us online to schedule your complimentary case evaluation with one of our exceptional Cook County, IL personal injury attorneys.