Why Semi-Truck Accidents Are More Common During the Winter Months

The winter months present a formidable challenge for motorists, contributing to a higher risk of accidents with large commercial vehicles, such as semi-trucks. As the winter season often blankets the roads with snow and ice or causes low visibility, the risk of semi-truck accidents increases. 

If you have been injured in a truck accident, an experienced semi-truck accident attorney can collect evidence and prove the liability of the at-fault truck driver and the trucking company to get you the financial compensation you deserve.

Winter Weather Risks Contributing to Truck Accidents on Virginia Roads

Adverse Weather Conditions 

Winter brings about a host of weather-related challenges, including snow, ice, sleet, and freezing rain. These adverse conditions significantly impact road safety, making it difficult for semi-truck drivers to maintain control of their vehicles. Reduced visibility, slippery roads, and unpredictable weather patterns create a hazardous environment that contributes to a higher incidence of accidents.

Longer Stopping Distances 

Semi-trucks have much longer stopping distances compared to smaller vehicles due to their size and weight. In winter conditions, where roads are often slick and icy, the increased stopping distance becomes a critical factor. Drivers may find it challenging to bring their trucks to a halt quickly, leading to an elevated risk of collisions with other vehicles.

Limited Maneuverability 

Driving through winter road conditions requires a high level of skill and caution. Semi-truck drivers need to contend with limited maneuverability, especially when faced with tight turns or sudden lane changes. Icy roads amplify the challenge, making it harder for drivers to maintain control and avoid potential accidents.

Reduced Traction 

Traction is an important aspect of safe driving, and winter conditions can compromise it significantly. Semi-trucks, with their large tires, are susceptible to reduced traction on icy or snow-covered roads. This lack of traction increases the likelihood of skidding or jackknifing, both of which can lead to severe accidents.

Inexperienced Drivers 

Winter driving demands a unique set of skills and experience, which not all semi-truck drivers may possess. Inexperienced drivers or those unfamiliar with winter road conditions may struggle to adapt, increasing the probability of accidents. Proper training and awareness campaigns are essential to equip drivers with the skills needed to drive safely during winter weather.

Legal Recourse for Truck Accident Victims

According to the Federal Highway Administration, almost 76,000 individuals suffer injuries in vehicle crashes during snowfall or sleet. The weather often brings gusty winds that pose a threat to the stability of tall, narrow trailers commonly found on many commercial vehicles. If you were injured in an accident with a truck, you may have the following legal options to recover financial compensation:

• Personal Injury Claims: Victims of truck accidents can file personal injury claims against the parties deemed responsible. These claims seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages resulting from the accident. You should speak with a personal injury attorney to handle the challenges of such claims.
• Wrongful Death Claims: In tragic cases where a truck accident leads to the loss of life, surviving family members may pursue wrongful death claims. These claims aim to provide compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and the emotional toll on the family.
• Product Liability Claims: If the accident resulted from a defect in the truck or its components, victims may pursue product liability claims against the manufacturer. Proving that a design flaw or manufacturing defect directly contributed to the accident is essential in these cases.

Importance of Legal Representation in Virginia Truck Accident Claims

Engaging the services of an experienced truck accident attorney is important for handling the legal process. Attorneys specializing in personal injury and truck accidents can provide valuable guidance, investigate the case thoroughly, and advocate for your best interests. Attorneys conduct thorough investigations into the circumstances of the truck accident. This includes collecting evidence such as accident reports, witness statements, and any available surveillance footage. 

In truck accidents, identifying the responsible party is paramount. Liability may extend beyond the truck driver to include the trucking company, maintenance contractors, or even manufacturers in the case of defective parts. Investigating the circumstances surrounding the accident is important for establishing liability.

Attorneys conduct thorough investigations into the circumstances of the truck accident. This includes collecting evidence such as accident reports, witness statements, and any available surveillance footage. 

The trucking industry is subject to federal regulations to ensure safety on the roads. If a trucking company or driver violates these regulations, it can strengthen your case. An attorney well-versed in trucking regulations can leverage these violations in pursuing a legal claim.

Need for Early Hiring of an Attorney in Semi-Truck Accident Cases

Time is of the essence when it comes to preserving evidence related to the truck accident. Your lawyer can swiftly initiate an investigation, ensuring that important evidence such as accident scene details, vehicle damage, and witness statements are documented before they can be lost or altered.

Accident investigators and reconstruction experts may rely heavily on the semi-truck’s black box data to understand the sequence of events during an accident. This information aids in determining factors such as the speed of the truck, whether brakes were applied, and the overall performance of the vehicle leading up to the collision.

Truck accidents often involve multiple parties, including the truck driver, trucking company, maintenance contractors, and possibly manufacturers. Identifying all responsible parties early in the process is essential for building a comprehensive case for maximum damages. 

Discuss a Winning Legal Strategy with our Attorneys to Maximize Your Compensation

The experienced semi-truck accident attorneys at the Pack Law Group have an in-depth understanding of the laws, regulations, and various aspects specific to truck accidents. With a track record of large settlements and verdicts in truck accident cases, we have the ability to take on powerful insurance carriers and large trucking companies and fight for the largest compensation on your behalf. To schedule your free consultation, call 540-586-7225 or reach us online.