Phoenix Head-On Truck Accidents
In Arizona, a truck or tractor-trailer is considered to be a motor vehicle that’s primary use is carrying property other than the personal property of the driver or passengers. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has recorded a steady increase in truck accident injuries every year across the nation since 2009.
Similar to car or motorcycle accidents, truck accidents can cause mental, emotional, and physical injuries. Accident injuries can leave victims drowning in financial debts. Serious injuries may cause victims to miss work and some may not be able to return to work at all.
If you have been injured in a truck accident and are unsure of what to do next, contact our Arizona personal injury law firm. At ELG ACCIDENT ATTORNEYS, we understand that suffering injuries in an accident can negatively affect your life and we want to help. Call us today to schedule a free case consultation and learn about your legal options.
Head-On Truck Accident Statistics in Arizona
Commercial trucks can weigh anywhere from 20,000 lbs to 80,000 lbs. This is compared to the 5,000 lbs that an average sedan weighs. When a driver or passenger has a collision with a massive truck or tractor-trailer it can cause serious and irreparable damage to the vehicle and victims.
Any type of collision with a semi-truck or tractor-trailer is dangerous, but a head-on collision can be fatal. The following is a list of shocking head-on truck accident statistics for the state of Arizona:
- In 2017, 4,889 large trucks and buses were involved in fatal crashes.
- The number of large truck accident fatalities increased by 10 percent from 2016 to 2017.
- Around 75 percent of head-on truck accidents take place on rural roads.
- Four percent of head-on collisions happen when a vehicle is attempting to pass or overtake another.
- Most fatalities that occur in head-on truck accidents are passenger vehicle occupants.
- Loaded tractor-trailer takes 20 to 40 percent farther than cars to stop.
Drivers of large commercial trucks are able to drive for 11 hours at a time according to federal hours-of-service regulations. Unfortunately, surveys have shown that many drivers violate these regulations and drive longer than permitted. This can cause drivers to become overtired and lose focus or fall asleep at the wheel.
Safety Tips and Practices for Driving Safe
A large majority of truck accidents take place on one or two lanes roads. Commercial trucks pass through Arizona desert roads to transport goods. Drivers can log long hours which may cause them to lose focus and become drowsy. Avoiding an accident isn’t always possible, but we have compiled a list of safety practices that may help drivers to avoid head-on collisions and serious injuries.
- Staying alert and prepared.
- Can the road for hazards.
- Travel in the center of your lane to maintain safe spacing.
- On roads with multiple lanes, the far right lane is typically the safest.
- Drive the speed limit.
- Exercise caution when approaching curves.
Additionally, always wearing seat belts and ensuring your vehicle’s safety features are functioning and properly maintained can keep victims safe in case an accident occurs. If you have been injured in a head-on truck accident contact our Arizona personal injury law firm and do not hesitate to get the help you need.
Finding the Right Phoenix Truck Accident Attorney for You
Experiencing a head-on collision with a truck or tractor-trailer can be traumatic and stressful. This type of accident can cause catastrophic or even fatal injuries. These injuries may require hospital visits, physical rehabilitation, or surgery. All of this can cost a victim thousands of dollars and add unwanted stress and anxiety.
At ELG ACCIDENT ATTORNEYS we understand the frustration and pain that truck accident victims may experience and we want to help. If you have been injured in a head-on collision with a truck or tractor-trailer that occurred due to negligence or recklessness, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact our Phoenix truck accident law firm today at (623) 877-3600 to schedule a free case consultation.