For those of us who have been driving long enough, we have learned to have a healthy respect for driving, as it is a dangerous activity. Driving requires a strict attention to detail as well as focus and alertness in order to be ready for whatever happens on the roadways. People drive all types of vehicles of varying sizes and weights. Just like driving in general necessitates a healthy respect, deferring to trucks on the road should also warrant this respect. Due to the sheer size of a truck and the impact it can have in an accident, many drivers will defer and give way to 18-wheelers, buses and big rigs.
When trucks are involved in accidents, the negative results of the accident are usually pretty substantial. That is not to say that all truck accidents end in serious bodily injury or death. However, the stakes seem higher when one is in an accident with a truck. For instance, in Pennsylvania, specifically Jefferson Township, there was a recent accident between two trucks. One trucker ran into the back of another trucker, pushing him into a concrete barrier. The truck driver that apparently caused the accident was distracted while he was driving. Both trucks ended up catching on fire and the other driver had to be extricated from the vehicle and was then taken to the hospital.
A careless driver or an inattentive truck driver may be two of the main causes of accidents. While driving, people tend to find a number of things to do other than just drive and this leads to roadway disasters. In cases where the driver is careless, the police investigation of the accident will often reveal this and police will issue citations where appropriate. The civil courts become involved if the harmed party wants to seek compensation for damages, such as medical expenses, stemming from the collision.
There is really no way to be prepared for an automobile accident. Dealing proactively with the aftermath of an accident, however, is something that can be done and can help a victim tremendously.
Source: 6 WJAC, “Accident on PA Turnpike sends one worker to the hospital,” April 1, 2014