Tragically, collisions with big rigs are often the result of a negligent driver or trucking company and the consequences are devastating. If you lost a spouse or family member in a Pennsylvania semi-truck accident, you might have grounds for a claim.
In 2019, according to IIHS, 97% of collision fatalities between passenger vehicles and big trucks were occupants of the passenger vehicles. Virtually any collision involving a semi-truck may result in a fatality, but certain types of truck accidents are potentially more lethal than others.
Underride accidents
Underride accidents are among the deadliest big truck collisions. They occur when a smaller vehicle slides under the trailer, becoming wedged underneath. They happen for several reasons, including the following:
- Defective or dim taillights
- Weak rear guards
- Improper use of reflective rear triangles
Catastrophic injuries and death often result from these disastrous encounters.
Rear-end accidents
Rear-end collisions happen when a truck hits a vehicle from behind. Tractor-trailer trucks often weigh up to 80,000 pounds when loaded. This makes it impossible to stop quickly when traveling at highway speeds.
Jackknife accidents
When a truck hauling a trailer skids, it often results in the trailer pushing it from behind, spinning it around. The cab ends up facing in the opposite direction. If the trailer slides across traffic lanes, nearby vehicles may not be able to avoid a collision. These accidents may happen in poor road conditions and when drivers lose control of the rig due to inexperience or lack of training.
Trucking companies often have abundant resources to fight claims. Understanding the types of truck crashes and their causes may help you work through the claims process and protect your rights.
