Commercial truck accidents can lead to serious, life-altering injuries. When they occur due to negligence, you may be able to pursue financial compensation with the help of our skilled truck crash attorneys.
Understanding the common causes of truck accidents in Southfield is a useful first step. Our lawyers at Thurswell Law are ready to handle your claim, regardless of the cause.
What Can Lead to a Truck Crash?
In Southfield, several common factors may contribute to truck wrecks.
Driver Fatigue
Truck drivers work long hours, and fatigue can build even with federal driving limits in place. Tired drivers have slower reaction times and may miss traffic hazards until it is too late. In heavy traffic, even a brief lapse in attention can lead to a serious crash.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is a growing problem in the trucking industry. A driver looking at a phone, adjusting a GPS, or eating may not see road hazards. Large vehicles need more time and distance to stop, so even a moment of distraction can lead to a collision.
Speeding
Pressure to meet delivery deadlines leads some truckers to speed or drive recklessly. Speeding trucks are harder to control and take longer to stop. Aggressive behaviors, such as tailgating or unsafe lane changes, increase the risk of crashes.
Improperly Loaded Cargo
Loaders must balance and secure cargo correctly. If it shifts during transport, it can cause the truck to tip or make steering difficult. Overloaded vehicles also put extra strain on brakes and tires, increasing the chance of mechanical failure.
Poor Vehicle Maintenance
Trucking companies must keep their vehicles in safe working condition. Worn brakes and faulty lights can lead to crashes if not repaired. The party responsible for maintaining the vehicle may be liable in these cases.
Weather and Road Conditions
Rain, snow, and ice make roads dangerous. Trucks are more difficult to operate in inclement weather, and wet roads will make driving more challenging.
Time Limits for Filing a Lawsuit
Knowing the frequent causes of commercial vehicle collisions in Southfield, as well as the strict filing deadlines, can help you protect your claim. The statute of limitations typically expires three years from the date of the accident. If you miss this deadline, the court will likely dismiss your case, no matter how strong it may be.
Some exceptions can shorten or extend this timeline. For example, claims involving government entities often require notice within a much shorter period. You might also have additional time to file suit if you were under the age of 18 at the time of the collision.
As these rules can affect your ability to recover compensation, it is important to act quickly.
Call Us To Learn About the Common Reasons for Southfield Truck Collisions
Understanding the common causes of truck accidents in Southfield is only one step in the personal injury claim process. Our attorneys at Thurswell Law could help you understand your rights and determine if you have a viable case. We have experience handling truck accident claims, and that experience helps us get results. Call today for a consultation.
