Ontario roads can get congested with large transport trucks moving goods from one place to another. The province relies on these trucks to move freight in a swift and timely manner, however, because of the heavy demands put on truck drivers to meet tight deadlines the opportunities for accidents involving trucks is high. There were over 9000 truck accidents in Ontario in 2022.
Because of the heavy nature of 18-wheelers, truck accidents often lead to serious injuries. Some of these accidents are caused by weather conditions, other drivers, or some other unavoidable issue but many are caused by negligence of some kind whether on the part of the driver or the part of the trucking company. When this is the case it is important to speak with an Ontario truck accident lawyer near you about the possibility of submitting a personal injury claim for compensation.
Why You Need An Ontario Truck Accident Lawyer When You’ve Had An Accident
Compared to two-vehicle collisions, accidents involving 18-wheeler trucks often entail a multitude of parties, complicating the assessment of liability. Responsibility may not solely rest on the driver; instead, it could be distributed among various entities, including the commercial trucking company, the truck’s owner, and the insurance company. If the driver is found to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol, even more parties might become entangled in the legal proceedings.
Moreover, the policies of transportation companies can be exceedingly intricate, leading to challenges in securing compensation for victims. For instance, truckers are frequently designated as independent contractors, and as a result, trucking companies frequently disavow their liability. This underscores the necessity of seeking the assistance of a proficient 18-wheeler accident attorney in Toronto to guide you through these intricate matters.
Given the multitude of stakeholders involved, identifying the responsible party requires the expertise of someone well-versed in handling such cases. An experienced truck accident lawyer understands the complexities of these types of cases, they understand the amount of investigation needed to make sure that fault is properly placed on the correct parties, and they will fight for you to help you get the compensation you deserve.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents
There are many factors that might contribute to an accident involving a transport truck. Some of the most common reasons truck accidents happen include:
Driver Fatigue: One of the most prevalent reasons for truck accidents is driver fatigue. Truck drivers often face demanding schedules and long hours on the road, leading to tiredness and decreased alertness. Inadequate rest breaks and stringent delivery deadlines can push drivers to the brink, increasing the risk of accidents.
Distracted Driving: Distracted driving is a problem not limited to passenger vehicles. Truck drivers can also become distracted by using mobile devices, adjusting the radio, or even eating while driving. These distractions divert their attention from the road, reducing reaction times and increasing the likelihood of accidents.
Speeding: Excessive speed is a common factor in truck accidents. Due to their size and weight, commercial trucks require longer distances to come to a complete stop. Speeding reduces a driver’s ability to react to sudden changes in traffic conditions, increasing the risk of rear-end collisions and loss of control.
Poor Maintenance: Inadequate vehicle maintenance is another significant contributor to truck accidents. Faulty brakes, worn tires, and malfunctioning lights can lead to critical safety issues. Regular inspections and maintenance are essential to prevent these accidents caused by mechanical failures.
Inexperienced Drivers: Truck driving requires specific skills and knowledge. Inexperienced or poorly trained drivers may struggle to navigate these massive vehicles effectively, leading to accidents. Employing unqualified drivers or failing to provide adequate training can have serious consequences.
Impaired Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a leading cause of accidents, and truck drivers are not exempt from this issue. Impaired judgment and decreased motor skills can have devastating consequences when operating a commercial vehicle.
Promoting responsible driving practices and awareness among all road users is also essential in mitigating the risks associated with large commercial vehicles on our highways. And if you have been involved in an accident involving an 18-wheeler and are in need of an Ontario truck accident lawyer, you should consider one of the top 18-wheeler accident lawyers in Toronto, Himpro Personal Injury and Long-Term Disability Lawyers.
