Colorado Springs Truck Accident Attorneys

Types of Truck Accidents in Colorado Springs

Understanding the different types of truck accidents is important for victims who may need legal recourse to get fair compensation and ensure their rights are protected.

• Rear-end collisions involving trucks can be devastating due to the sheer size and weight of commercial vehicles. These accidents occur when a truck fails to stop in time and crashes into the vehicle ahead. The significant force of impact can lead to severe injuries, including whiplash, spinal cord damage, and traumatic brain injuries.
• Jackknife accidents occur when a truck’s trailer swings out to the side, forming an angle with the cab resembling a folding knife. These accidents are caused by sudden braking, slippery road conditions, or improper load distribution. Truck jackknifes often lead to multi-vehicle collisions.
• Rollover accidents are among the most dangerous types of truck accidents, often resulting in catastrophic injuries or fatalities. These accidents occur when a truck loses control, causing it to tip over onto its side or roof. Common causes include taking curves too quickly, abrupt steering maneuvers, and uneven load distribution.
• Tire blowouts happen when a truck tire bursts. This can cause the driver to lose control, resulting in the vehicle swerving or even overturning. Factors such as overloading, underinflated tires, and poor maintenance are common causes of tire blowouts. The debris from a blown tire can also pose additional hazards to other road users.
• Underride accidents are some of the most lethal types of truck accidents. They happen when a smaller vehicle collides with the rear or side of a truck and slides underneath it. The top of the smaller vehicle can be sheared off, leading to devastating injuries or fatalities for the occupants. Common causes include sudden stops and lack of proper underride guards on trucks.
• Blind spot accidents occur because trucks have large blind spots on all four sides, making it difficult for the driver to have a clear view of nearby vehicles. That’s why truck drivers must use extra caution and signal in advance whenever they merge or change lanes.

What Causes Truck Accidents in Colorado Springs?

Trucking companies bear significant responsibilities in ensuring the safety of their operations. They are obligated to comply with federal and state regulations, which include maintaining their fleets, enforcing service hours, and ensuring that drivers are adequately trained and qualified. Companies must conduct regular vehicle inspections and promptly address any maintenance issues.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) establishes comprehensive rules governing hours of service, vehicle maintenance, and driver qualifications. These regulations aim to minimize risks such as driver fatigue, mechanical failures, and unqualified drivers. Colorado imposes additional regulations to keep you and your family safe when you’re traveling along our roads and highways.

Trucker fatigue is a significant contributor to truck accidents in Colorado Springs. Fatigued drivers are more likely to experience reduced reaction times, impaired judgment, and even microsleep episodes, where they briefly fall asleep at the wheel. Federal Hours of Service (HOS) regulations enforce mandatory rest periods and maximum driving hours to combat this issue. When trucking companies fail to ensure that their drivers are meeting federal HOS standards, both the driver and their employer may be held liable for injuries that result.

Distracted driving is another prevalent cause of truck accidents in Colorado Springs. With the increasing reliance on mobile devices, many truck drivers are carelessly checking phones, GPS systems, or other in-cab technologies while driving. Even momentary distractions can lead to catastrophic results, given the size and weight of commercial trucks. Activities like eating, adjusting the radio, or engaging in conversations can also divert a driver’s attention away from the road.

Driving under the influence (DUI) is a grave issue, contributing to numerous truck accidents in Colorado Springs. Despite stringent regulations and severe

penalties, some truck drivers still engage in the dangerous practice of operating their vehicles while impaired by alcohol or drugs. DUI severely impairs a driver’s ability to make sound judgments, react quickly, and maintain control of the vehicle. Trucking companies should only employ drivers who maintain a safe and sober driving record.

Improperly loaded cargo significantly elevates the risk of truck accidents. Cargo that is not correctly balanced or secured can shift during transit, leading to uneven weight distribution and affecting the truck’s stability. This imbalance may cause the driver to lose control, especially during sharp turns or sudden stops, resulting in rollovers or jackknife accidents.

Overloaded trucks also face increased braking distances and reduced maneuverability, further heightening the risk of collisions. Regulations mandate specific loading procedures to ensure safety, but non-compliance remains an issue within the industry.

Poor vehicle maintenance is a critical factor contributing to truck accidents in Colorado Springs. Commercial trucks require regular inspections and upkeep to ensure all components are functioning correctly. Trucking companies are responsible for maintaining their fleets in safe operating conditions, but cost-cutting measures and time constraints often lead to lapses in this duty.

How Your Colorado Springs Truck Accident Attorney Can Help

Your Colorado Springs auto accident attorney can investigate the accident to determine liability for your injuries. The Bussey Law Firm, P.C., knows how to collect key pieces of evidence, including police reports, witness statements, accident scene photographs, surveillance and dash cam footage, driver logs, and event data recorder information (commonly known as the truck’s black box).

When our investigation is complete, our attorneys can file a claim against anyone whose negligent behavior contributed to your injuries. This may include trucking companies, negligent truck drivers, manufacturers of defective vehicles, and other motorists involved in the crash.

When The Bussey Law Firm, P.C., files a truck accident claim or lawsuit, it includes damages expenses such as medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional trauma, medical devices, wheelchair ramps for your home, and assisted living care.

Speak with Our Colorado Springs Truck Accident Lawyers Today

If the other side refuses to make a serious offer, The Bussey Law Firm, P.C., is always prepared to take your case to court.

Call our experienced truck accident attorneys in Colorado Springs at (719) 475-2555 to learn more today.