Semi-trucks are some of the most dangerous vehicles on Southern California’s roads. Take one look at these lumbering, heavy monstrosities, and it is not difficult to imagine why. But while the size and weight of semi-trucks certainly pose serious hazards to innocent motorists, many dangers of semi-trucks may not be so obvious. There is much more than meets the eye when it comes to semi-truck dangers, and often the only way to find out is to experience these hazards firsthand.
Victims of semi-truck accidents in Southern California do not need reminding of how dangerous these vehicles can be. For these individuals, the priority is to pursue compensation for their injuries rather than educate themselves about the hazards they have already experienced. The best way to pursue compensation after a truck accident in Southern California is to get in touch with a qualified personal injury attorney as soon as possible.
Slow Braking Distances – Semi-trucks take an exceptionally long time to come to complete stops, even after truckers slam on the brakes. This means that by the time a trucker spots a hazard up ahead, it is usually already too late to avoid the collision. Standardized braking distance measurements reflect the speed at which a vehicle comes to a complete stop after activating the brakes at a speed of 60 miles per hour. Some of the most modern vehicles today can come to a complete stop very quickly. For example, the 2021 Ferrari SF90 Stradale is capable of coming to a complete stop in just 134 feet after reaching a speed of 60 miles per hour. The Ferrari F2004 is capable of the same feat in an insanely short distance of 53 feet.
In contrast, a typical semi-truck is considered to be exceptional if it can come to a complete stop within 300 feet after reaching a speed of 60 miles per hour. In other words, human reaction times simply are not a factor here. Even if the trucker behind the wheel has lightning-quick reflexes, they’re still dealing with a vehicle that struggles to react. The implications are obvious: Semi-trucks pose a serious risk to other vehicles due to their slow braking speeds.
Dangerous Cargo – Semi-trucks may also carry dangerous cargo. This might include flammable materials, explosive materials, toxic materials, or even nuclear materials. Even if a crash is relatively minor, the resulting cargo leak can be catastrophic. Recently, a tanker truck crashed on the I-95 in Pennsylvania, causing an explosion that was intense enough to collapse an entire section of an overpass. Victims caught in the blast radius of these explosions can lose their lives, suffer serious burns, and become disfigured.
The cargo itself can be dangerous if it is packed or loaded incorrectly, even if it is completely innocuous. “Unbalanced loads” can cause semi-trucks to become incredibly unstable, increasing the chances of rollovers during tight turns. Unbalanced loads are especially common when loading garbage, lumber, and other cargo that is difficult to stack correctly.
Underriding Accidents – Of all the collisions involving semi-trucks, underriding accidents are some of the most dangerous. These accidents occur when victims slam into the rear of semi-trucks and slip underneath the trailers. The back edge of the trailer causes a “shearing” effect, literally ripping away the roofs of smaller passenger vehicles. Under certain circumstances, these accidents can cause fatal decapitations.
To prevent underriding accidents, trucking manufacturers and operators have been urged to install underride bars. While newer models may have these safety features, there are plenty of older semi-trucks that are still active in Southern California, that lack those safety features.
Trucker Negligence – Finally, trucker negligence is one of the most serious hazards associated with the trucking industry. Trucker negligence may include intoxication, distraction, reckless driving, and much more. Many truckers consume stimulants in order to stay away for long periods, and these drugs can affect their judgment and cognitive processes. Drivers may also become distracted by their phones due to the monotonous nature of long hauls.
Where Can I Find a Qualified Truck Accident Attorney in Southern California?
If you have been searching for an experienced truck accident attorney in Rancho Cucamonga, look no further than Miracle Law, APC. With our assistance, you can hold negligent truckers and truck companies accountable for the injuries they have caused. We have experience with truck accidents, and we have led many injured plaintiffs to positive outcomes in the past. The sooner you get in touch with us and book your consultation, the sooner you can pursue compensation in a confident manner. Remember, the statute of limitations may prevent you from suing if you wait too long. Reach out today.