All vehicle accidents come with a great risk of property damage and bodily harm. But when it comes to commercial truck accidents, the consequences of these accidents can be utterly devastating. Accidents involving large commercial trucks, such as 18-wheelers, often result in multiple-vehicle accidents with injuries or even fatalities. Unfortunately, sometimes trucks that cause accidents leave the scene of the accident, committing a hit-and-run. Here are common causes of hit-and-run truck accidents.
There are many federal and state laws that govern commercial trucking. When a driver fails to follow these laws, he or she can face many different consequences. When a commercial truck driver breaks one of these safety laws it is considered “negligence per se,” which serves to establish that the driver was negligent.
1. The truck driver drove for too long without breaking.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has established rules for how long a trucker can drive without taking a break as well as how long those breaks must be. This is important because it helps to prevent drivers from becoming too tired and falling asleep behind the wheel or failing to properly react to various situations.
2. The truck driver or trucking company failed to properly maintain his truck.
Trucking companies must regularly inspect their trucks to ensure that all parts of the vehicle are properly maintained. Drivers are also required to inspect their truck while they are on the road to be sure that their load is properly secured and their vehicle is safe to drive. Negligent maintenance that leads to an accident creates liability for the damages.
3. The truck driver engaged in distracted driving.
As with any driver, truck drivers are not allowed to perform any activities while they drive that can distract them from the road. This is especially important for truck drivers, who often cause much more serious injuries or fatalities than those driving smaller passenger vehicles.
When a truck driver does any of the above, leading to an accident, he or she may wish to avoid the consequences of their actions and flee the scene. If a safety law is broken it’s likely that negligence per se can be established.
The Attorneys at Ceja Law Firm Help Those in Houston Who Have Been Injured in a Truck Accident
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, it can have a severe impact on your life. Therefore, it’s vital that you understand what you are entitled to under the law. That’s why it’s in your best interest to consult with a knowledgeable and experienced Texas personal injury attorney who specializes in truck accidents.
At Ceja Law Firm PLLC, we understand the importance of holding those responsible accountable. That’s why we will work to get you the compensation that you deserve. To learn more or to schedule a free consultation, contact us today!
