Fatal Big Rig Collision in Elk Grove
A fatal big rig collision occurred near Elk Grove on March 28 when a semi went off Interstate 5 South and hit a tree. The accident happened close to Twin Cities Road at about 10:30 in the morning. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) was called to the scene and reported that one individual died in the accident. The solo crash blocked traffic to Hood-Franklin Road as the number two lane was closed to allow emergency vehicles to reach the accident site. Shortly after noon, the CHP was advising motorists to use alternate routes. I would like to offer my condolences to the family and friends of the deceased in their time of sorrow.
Statistics Involving Truck Crashes
Overall, there were 4,102 fatalities nationwide due to a big rig collision in 2017, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Approximately 17 percent of these involved the occupants of big rigs. Due to the size and weight discrepancy between big rigs and passenger vehicles, 68 percent of the deaths were to those in smaller passenger cars or trucks. The incidence of fatal big rig collision deaths involving a truck occupant is 52 percent higher than it was in 2009.
Fatality Factors
Different factors contribute in terms of accident fatalities to truck drivers and others. Fifty-two percent of fatal big rig collisions occur on major roads. Interstates and freeways see 32 percent of fatal truck accidents. About 17 percent of fatal truck accidents occur on the weekend. Truck rollovers account for 16 percent of fatalities to occupants of a big rig. This is higher than deaths from rollovers seen with SUVs and passenger cars. About 58 percent of truck occupant deaths happen in a solo big rig accident. Fifty-one percent of truckers killed in big rig collisions are using restraints.
Alcohol Use in Fatal Truck Crashes
Studies show that truckers killed in a crash have a low incidence of drunk driving. This is due in part because of federal rules that apply stiff penalties for drinking while driving a big rig. Only 4 percent of truckers in a fatal big rig collision in 2017 had a BAC level above 0.08 percent. This is lower than the 17 percent of impaired truckers in 1982.
Causes of Truck Accidents
There are several common reasons why truck accidents happen. They are:
- Trucks that are overloaded: Overloaded trucks can be dangerous. The weight can make them pick up speed going downhill and cause accidents. In addition, overweight trucks are harder to control. This can cause a rollover. It takes longer for an overloaded truck to stop. This is a problem on highways where the speed limit is higher. Technically, an overloaded truck exceeds the 80,000-pound limit.
- Tire blowouts: Truck tires can explode due to deterioration, poor maintenance or improper air levels. Carrying excessive loads can also put pressure on the tires, leading to a blowout. It is necessary that truckers check their tires daily. Failure to do so can lead to an accident. Defective tires play a role in tire blowouts.
- Poorly secured cargo: Improper cargo loading is one of the major reasons truck accidents happen. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration provides truckers with rules on how to load a truck. Cargo needs to stay in place, and ties and straps must be used for this purpose. Cargo that shifts around can cause a rollover.
- Dangerous roads: Poor roads or those that have deteriorated due to lack of maintenance can lead to truck accidents. Potholes, debris, poor signage and design all play a significant role. Agencies that are in charge of road maintenance can be held liable for accidents.
- Defective truck parts: Sometimes, manufacturers use defective parts. This leads to accidents due to equipment failure. For example, defective tires, brakes, underride bars, and hitches can all cause accidents. The manufacturer can be held responsible for an accident due to defective parts. An attorney can help determine if the accident was caused by defects and file a claim against the manufacturer for damages.
- Driver error: Error by drivers is a major reason accidents happen. This includes distracted and fatigued driving, reckless behavior or impairment by legal and illegal drugs or alcohol. While most truckers do not drink on the road, the use of over-the-counter or prescription drugs is common.
Elk Grove Truck Accident Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, an Elk Grove truck accident lawyer. Determining fault in a truck accident can be complex, and a truck accident lawyer can help. Call me at (916) 694-0002 or (800) 404-5400 for my free and friendly advice. It is possible to reach me online also.
I’ve helped Elk Grove residents obtain the compensation they deserve in car accidents, wrongful deaths, and traumatic brain injuries.
I belong to the National Association of Distinguished Counsel, which awards membership to those attorneys it feels practices legal excellence. I am also a member of the Million Dollar Advocates. We are a group of lawyers who have won more than one million dollars for a client.
To learn more about my practice, go to the following pages:
Ed Smith: Fatal Big Rig Collision in Elk Grove
Photo Attribution: Depositphotos_54789079_l-2015
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