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Truck Accident Injuries and Fatalities

lemaster • July 13, 2017
Truck Accident Injuries and Fatalities

One out of eight automotive accident fatalities involve large trucks such as big rigs, tractor trailers and other commercial vehicles.

Many trucks travel our streets and highways at all hours. As a result, accidents are common and often have catastrophic consequences.

According to studies, one out of eight automotive accident fatalities involve large trucks such as big rigs, tractor trailers and other commercial vehicles. Four percent of all injuries sustained in motor vehicle crashes are caused by large trucks. When a commercial truck is involved in an accident, 86 percent of fatalities and 77 percent of those injured are the drivers and passengers of the smaller vehicles involved in the crash.


There are many reasons highway accidents take place and why we see so many devastating injuries involving large trucks. Trucks lose control when a driver is:

  • Fatigued or falling asleep at the wheel
  • Speeding or aggressively driving
  • Using alcohol and/or drugs
  • Inadequately trained
  • Distracted or texting


If you find yourself in an accident with a tractor-trailer, there is a list of things you should do immediately.

What to do if you are involved in a tractor-trailer accident:


  • Call 9-1-1.
  • Get medical assistance.
  • Call your insurance company to report the accident.
  • Exchange information with those involved: eg., names, addresses, and phone numbers; license plates, make, model, and year of the vehicle; insurance information; car registration number; and driver’s license number).
  • Names, addresses, and phone numbers of witnesses.
  • Take pictures of the accident scene and damage to the vehicles.
  • Gather details from the accident: note the date and time; weather; location of the accident, and landmarks.
  • Call an experienced attorney, such as Craig Z. Small of the Small Law Firm .


Tractor-trailers are supposed to be operated by adequately trained and responsible drivers. However, when a truck driver causes an accident, those injured should be allowed compensation for the associated physical, financial, and psychological trauma.


What Type of Compensation Might You Be Eligible For?

If you were involved in a trucking accident , you may be eligible to recover damages, including:


  • Past and future medical expenses
  • Lost wages
  • Past and future pain and suffering
  • Physical scarring, disfigurement, or body function impairment
  • Psychological trauma
  • Funeral costs

Hire a trusted and experienced attorney. This will allow you the best odds of obtaining maximum compensation for you and your family. With over 21 years of experience, Attorney Craig Small will put his extensive resources and experience to work for you. He will guide you through the legal process step by step and provide you with the individual attention you would expect from a small law office.

Contact Us today! Call the Small Law Firm at (716) 847-2600 for a free consultation.


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