Truck accidents have been increasing in Delaware over the last few years. In fact, in 2011, there were a total of 1,248 truck accidents in Delaware; 156 more than in the previous year, 2010, that is 10 more truck accidents in Delaware every month. In addition, the number of large commercial truck accidents increased. Tractor-trailer and semi-truck accidents increased by 50 from 2010 to 2011. Click here to read more about Delaware truck accident statistics.
Due to the relative size of commercial trucks compared to passenger cars, truck accidents can cause very serious injuries and in many cases, lead to fatalities. Truck accident prevention begins with understanding the common types of truck accidents, which include:
- rear end accidents
- intersection accidents, and
- side swipe or head on collision accidents.
Rear End Truck Accidents
At even low speeds, a rear end truck accident can lead to major injuries. At higher speeds, rear end truck accidents are often fatal. It is important to know that large commercial trucks are simply incapable of coming to an abrupt or immediate stop. Tractor-trailers and semi-trucks often require more time to slow down. Therefore, it is important not to cut off trucks, especially on highways in Delaware such as Interstate 95.
Intersection Truck Accidents
Like drivers who cause other types of auto accidents such as a car accident, truck drivers are often guilty of carelessness and inattention. Running a red light or stop sign is one of the most common causes of truck accidents.
Earlier this month, the driver of a large tractor-trailer was cited for failing to stop at a red light and striking a University of Delaware bus. As a result, an estimated 40 people were injured. Nine individuals, University of Delaware students from a sorority, were taken to Christiana Hospital. *Source: http://abclocal.go.com, “Truck driver cited in University of Delaware school bus accident in Bear”
Side Swipe Truck Accidents & Head On Collision Truck Accidents
These types of truck accidents occur when a truck driver fails to stay in his or her lane and strikes a car in an adjacent lane. Side swipe and head on collision accidents are not as common as rear end or intersection truck accidents. However, when they occur, the results are often catastrophic, especially on two lane roadways and major highways. A truck driver on a rural two lane road may drift into another lane and strike a car coming in the opposite direction.
Side swipe accidents and head on collisions on major highways such as Interstate 95 in Delaware can cause major injuries. At high speeds, these truck accidents almost always result in second and even third impacts. Someone who survives the initial impact may be killed in a second or third impact.
Because truck accidents in Delaware are on the rise, drivers on Delaware roads and highway must stay alert and practice defensive driving at all times.
Related DE car-truck accident legal articles:
- Recovering Medical Bills in a Delaware Car or Truck Accident Case
- Pain and Suffering Damages in a Car/Truck Accident Case in Delaware
- Recovering Lost Wages After a Delaware Car/Truck Accident
Wilmington, DE Car & Truck Accident Lawyer with Over 30 Years of Experience
Since 1982, firm founder, Martin Knepper, has served residents of the Wilmington, DE area in all personal injury matters, including car accidents and truck accidents. Contact our accident lawyers today and ask for a free consultation. (302) 658.1717
Our lawyers serve residents throughout the Delaware area, including: Wilmington, Newark, Dover, Middletown, and Smyrna. We also represent residents of other states such as Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland and Virginia who are injured in car or truck accidents while in Delaware. For more information, please contact us.
*Disclaimer: This website page does not provide any legal advice or create any attorney-client relationship. Every case is unique and you should not take any action or make decisions in your case without speaking to a qualified car and truck accident lawyer in Delaware. Any discussion of results is no guarantee of the same or similar results in current or future cases.
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