Commercial Truck Accidents: Moving Beyond the Big Rig

Commercial Truck AccidentsWhen we think of commercial trucks, we usually think of tractor-trailers. But the category of “commercial truck” is a large one, and you may be more likely to have an auto accident on a South Carolina road way with a far smaller commercial vehicle. Just because the truck does not have 18 wheels, however, does not make it less dangerous.

Other Kinds of Commercial Trucks

Aside from tractor-trailers, South Carolina drivers can also face serious injuries in collisions with:

  • Garbage trucks. Garbage trucks are large, lumbering and difficult to see around. This puts you at risk of being hit while you are exiting your driveway or parking space, or by other motor vehicle drivers who are attempting to pass the truck.
  • Dump trucks. Dump trucks are usually tasked with carrying dirt, sand or gravel to and from construction or building sites. If their materials are not loaded properly, you could find yourself in a shower of debris while riding behind one. If they spill their cargo on the road, it could lead to dangerous driving conditions.
  • Tow trucks. Tow trucks, whether they carry multiple cars or only one, can cause devastating injuries if the driver failed to properly secure the car(s) on the flatbed or to the back.
  • Flatbeds. Flatbed in general can be dangerous. Like tractor-trailers, they usually carry large and heavy loads – but unlike big rigs, those loads are out in the open. They cannot brake as quickly as other vehicles, and some of the cargo they carry – such as live animals – can pose additional dangers on the road.
  • Tankers. A collision with a tanker can be deadly for many reasons. Not only are they large, but many tankers carry flammable liquids or HAZMAT materials. An accident with a tanker increases your chances of being in a fire or being exposed to toxic or noxious chemicals.

Commercial trucks that are large enough to jack-knife, heavy enough to rollover or high enough to fit another car underneath them in the event of a multi-car collision can all lead to serious injuries for drivers and passengers alike. No matter what kind of truck it is, make sure to drive slowly and carefully when around it to keep yourself safe.

If you were hurt in a collision with a commercial vehicle, McGowan, Hood, Felder & Phillips is prepared to help. Please contact us to make an appointment with an experienced South Carolina truck accident attorney about your needs. We maintain multiple offices throughout the state for your convenience.