While defensive driving can reduce the risk of an accident, it does not guarantee total protection. Fortunately, being struck from behind by a truck is not a very common type of accident. However, when this happens, the injuries can be serious.
If you’re at fault for the accident and driving under the influence, you may want to contact a good Nashville defense lawyer for court. Otherwise, if you’re the victim, take a look at the information below.
If you are in an accident with a truck that struck you from behind, here is what you need to know about who is responsible.
Who you can sue after a rear-end collision with a truck
Typically, the driver who rear-ends another vehicle is at fault. However, in some cases, other parties may be liable. For example, if the accident was caused by defective truck brakes, then the manufacturer may be liable. When it comes to receiving compensation for a rear-end collision, insurance companies will try to employ different tactics to reduce the amount of money you are entitled to receive after being in an accident. Therefore, it is crucial that you receive the help of an experienced truck accident attorney to protect your rights and obtain the compensation you deserve.
Why is it so dangerous for a truck to hit you from behind?
If a large trailer collides with the back of your car, you could suffer catastrophic injuries – and even death. According to the latest data (2013) from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), 82 people lost their lives and 6,000 more were injured in 2013. These are some factors that may contribute to the severity of this type of rear-end collision:
- Truck Weight – Trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds when loaded. If this amount of weight hits a 3,000-pound car from behind, the force of the impact can be devastating.
- Braking – When a truck needs to stop suddenly, its enormous weight prevents it from coming to a full stop quickly, resulting in a rear-end collision.
- Multiple Accidents – The tremendous weight of trucks makes them more likely to cause multiple accidents. If a truck hits another vehicle from behind, the force exerted can push that vehicle against another.