Winter can be the most beautiful time of the year. With the cold comes cozy nights, the holidays, and often lots of snow. However, Indiana gets especially big winter storms every year, causing treacherous conditions for drivers.
During winter, there is an increasing amount of vehicle collisions due to poor weather conditions. Conditions such as black ice, heavy snowfall, and high winds can be dangerous, and even more so when they all occur together.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents Statistics
It’s reported that 24% of weather-related vehicle accidents occur during the winter with icy roads being the leading cause of winter truck accidents. According to the Federal Highway Administration, about 1-in-5 U.S. car crashes are caused by bad weather, with the majority of those incidents (about 75%) due to snow and ice.
Accidents involving trucks are especially disastrous due to the truck’s size and design. The average weight of an empty semi-truck is 35,000 pounds which is much larger than a standard passenger vehicle.
Because of its size and weight, a truck requires an average of 20-40% more stopping distance than an average vehicle. Truck drivers have even less time to react, causing a greater impact if they crash in poor weather conditions with these additional hindrances:
- Limited visibility
- Loss of vehicle control
- Lack of road and tire traction
- Hidden debris in roadways
- Hidden road damage
Common causes of truck accidents regardless of weather include bad driving habits such as driving while fatigued, under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or being negligent in high-risk conditions.
Truck Accident Prevention
There are precautions truck drivers can take to prevent winter accidents. Adhering to all driving laws, especially those that are specific to trucking, such as not exceeding weight limits, not overdriving, and stopping for mandatory chain use are all ways to avoid getting into a winter accident.
Additionally, truck drivers should complete regular maintenance checks to ensure their vehicles will not experience any mechanical failures. Lastly, drivers should reduce speed and proceed with caution in adverse driving conditions and if they cannot remain alert, stay off the road until the weather improves.
Common Truck Accident Injuries
If a truck accident should occur, injuries sustained are often critical and life-changing. Injuries could include:
- Broken bones
- Internal bleeding
- Head trauma
- Spinal cord and back injuries
- Deep lacerations
These injuries require medical attention and, in some cases, long-term recovery programs. Unfortunately, the cost of medical services isn’t something a victim of a car accident should pay for out of pocket.
Truck Accident Liability
You must make a truck accident personal injury claim if you have sustained any damages from a winter truck accident. Indiana is a shared fault state, meaning if you are found to be less than 51% liable, you are eligible for compensation. When it comes to commercial vehicle accidents, several insurance agencies may need to be contacted to receive your total compensation.
Parties whose insurance could be involved are:
- The truck driver
- The trucking company
- The cargo loading company
- The parts manufacturer or vehicle manufacturer
- The owner of the truck’s cargo
Trust Your Claim with Crossen Law Firm
With so many parties involved in your personal injury claim, it can feel overwhelming. Insurance companies may offer you an initial settlement for less than what you deserve to avoid paying more and to stay out of court. After an accident, you shouldn’t have to settle; you should be fully covered financially to ensure all your medical expenses and damages are covered.
At Crossen Law Firm, we are dedicated to getting you your full compensation. We specialize in personal injury claims and understand the specifics of Indiana state laws. Taking your case creates a hassle-free experience for you, giving you time and peace of mind to heal while we work with insurance companies. If you or a loved one have been in a winter truck driving accident, contact us today.
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