- 71% of people killed in large-truck crashes in 2018 were occupants of other vehicles.
- 77% of the fatal crashes involving large trucks in 2018 occurred on weekdays (6 a.m. Monday to 5:59 p.m. Friday).
- Large-truck drivers involved in fatal crashes had a higher percentage (21.2%) of previously recorded crashes compared to drivers of other vehicle types (motorcycles, 19.8%; passenger cars, 19.0%; and light trucks, 17.5%).
- Large truck drivers were less likely to have previous driver’s license suspensions than drivers of other vehicle types involved in fatal crashes.
In this study, a large truck is defined as any medium or heavy truck, excluding buses and motor homes, with a gross vehicle weight rating greater than 10,000 pounds.
2018 Utah Vehicle Stats
- 9% of large trucks in the state were involved in fatal crashes – some states were as low as 2.4%, while others were as high as 18.8%
- 376 total vehicles were involved in fatal crashes
- 34 of those crashes included a large truck
What does this teach us?
- Smaller vehicles involved in large truck accidents are more likely to be seriously damaged and occupants injured or killed.
The weight difference of large trucks compared to passenger vehicles will mean that the smaller vehicle is on the losing end in the vast majority of crashes.
- Truck drivers tend to have previous crashes on their records.
We can see from the 2018 report that large-truck drivers are not only to be more likely to be involved in an accident, but were less likely to have their license suspended compared to drivers of other vehicle types.
- Truck drivers don’t have to be drinking to cause serious injury or death.
Distracted driving, exhaustion, exceeding driving hours, reckless driving, to improper vehicle maintenance procedures, including skipping schedule appointments, lacking the proper review or replacement of dangerous parts, including tires, brakes, transmission, or steering elements can be contributing factors for an accident.
What can be done?
Have the accident investigated. From recklessness to negligence, there are a number of things that could be the reason for the accident. From the operator, trucking company to manufacturer or maintenance crews, the responsible party needs to be held responsible.
Hire an experienced semi-truck accident attorney. McMullin Injury Law is well versed in Utah codes and the policy and procedures surrounding large vehicle accidents. Our attorneys will be able to go over your options and get to work quickly. Your claim may include the following damages that you are entitled to and should be properly and fairly compensated for:
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Lost wages and the loss of your future earnings
- Lost or damaged property, including your damaged vehicle
- Mental health treatment
- Medical expenses, including bills, medications, and surgeries
If you or a loved one was injured or killed in a large truck accident, you have a lot on your mind. The process can be scary, devasting and overwhelming. This is where our attorneys can go to work for you, so you can focus on recovery and healing. Call us today.
