Falling Truck Debris Accident

Large trucks, such as tractor-trailers, sometimes travel at high speeds, make tight turns, or hit bumps while traversing the roadways. When this occurs, cargo can leave the truck and strike cars, block traffic, and create obstacles, potentially causing life-threatening incidents.

This type of car accident (referred to as a falling truck debris accident) happens more than you may think. According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, an estimated 50,658 road debris-related crashes occurred annually in the United States from 2011 to 2014. These incidents resulted in 9,805 injuries and 125 fatalities.

There’s no telling when or where this frightening situation will happen. Many drivers and passengers involved in a falling debris accident can suffer serious or even permanent injuries. If you’ve been injured by debris from a truck, you may qualify for financial compensation. Contact a truck accident lawyer at William Mattar law offices today to learn more about your legal options. Just call (844) 444-4444.

Common Types of Falling Truck Debris

A single piece of debris can be incredibly dangerous on the roadways. When debris falls off a tractor-trailer, it can result in life-threatening circumstances for the occupants of smaller motor vehicles. The severity of a falling debris accident may depend on the type of cargo that is being transported. There are several different types of cargo that can cause a motor vehicle collision, including:

• Tire debris;
• Raw materials, such as lumber or metal beams;
• Household and grocery goods or items;
• Construction/contractor equipment;
• Loose rocks, gravel, or dirt;
• Mechanical car parts;
• Live animals;
• Toxic chemicals or oil; and
• Waste.

Some types of solid debris can fall and crush a vehicle, resulting in injury or death. Other forms of debris, such as chemicals or waste, can create slick or unstable road conditions that can increase the risk of a motor vehicle crash. If you’ve been injured in a car accident involving truck cargo, consider contacting a personal injury lawyer to evaluate your case.

Causes of Truck Debris Accidents

Commercial trucking companies are required to secure their truck cargo to prevent debris from escaping or slipping out onto the road.

Despite regulations, the improper securing and loading of cargo is a major cause of falling truck debris crashes. Every year, the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) conducts inspections of thousands of commercial vehicles to identify safety compliance violations. Over 12 percent of “out-of-service vehicle violations” found involved the securement of cargo.

Cargo must be controlled using the appropriate securement systems, which may include tying or fastening objects. Otherwise, cargo can fall out of a vehicle and onto the roadway. Fine materials, such as gravel, can create litter and become a potential hazard to drivers. Solid and heavy materials are especially dangerous. Debris, such as large rocks can crack windshields, crush vehicle frames, and cause other damage that can lead to serious injury.

Who is Liable for a Truck Debris Accident?

Determining fault in a falling truck debris incident can be complex. Multiple people or entities can be responsible for maintaining a large truck, such as a tractor-trailer or commercial vehicle. Therefore, when a truck’s cargo is not secure, and debris falls onto the roadway causing a collision, more than one party can be considered liable. A party may be determined to be liable if they failed to secure the vehicle and ensure that it was safe to travel on public roadways.

The driver of a semi-truck, a trucking company, or another party who loaded the vehicle, could potentially be responsible in a falling truck debris accident. A truck accident lawyer can investigate your case and help determine who may be at fault for the accident that resulted in your injuries.

Compensation for a Falling Truck Debris Crash

Victims of truck debris accidents can sustain severe injuries that may require long-term treatment or rehabilitation. The cost of extensive medical care can add up over time, leaving victims with the bill. Those who have been injured may also struggle with the physical and emotional pain associated with the aftermath of a serious accident.

If you’ve been injured in a truck accident as a result of negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. Types of compensation include but are not limited to lost wages and income; medical expenses; property damage; pain and suffering; and emotional anguish.

Contact an Experienced Truck Accident Lawyer Today

If you’ve been seriously injured in a falling truck debris accident, it’s time to get the help you need. The dedicated truck accident attorneys at William Mattar have experience with these types of cases and can help you achieve maximum compensation. Call (844) 444-4444 or fill our online form for a free and confidential consultation.