Semi-truck accidents can have catastrophic consequences. If you or a loved one suffers injuries in a collision with a large commercial truck in North Charleston, South Carolina, you need a dedicated and experienced North Charleston semi-truck accident lawyer with more than a decade of experience on your side. At Shelly Leeke Law Firm, a North Charleston truck accident lawyer is committed to providing aggressive representation to victims of semi-truck accidents and helping them obtain the compensation needed to assist recovery.
Types of Semi-Truck Accidents
North Charleston semi-truck accidents can occur in various ways, each with unique circumstances and potential causes. Understanding the different types of semi-truck accidents can help a North Charleston personal injury lawyer identify the liable parties and build a strong case. Common types of semi-truck accidents include:
- Jackknife accidents: A jackknife accident occurs when a semi-truck’s trailer swings out to the side, forming a 90-degree angle with the cab. This typically happens when the truck skids, causing the driver to lose control. It is commonly caused by sudden braking, slippery roads, and speeding.
- Rollover accidents: Rollover accidents happen when a semi-truck flips onto its side or roof. These accidents are often catastrophic due to the truck’s size and weight and are caused by sharp turns, uneven loads, and high winds.
- Rear-end collisions: Rear-end collisions involve a semi-truck hitting the vehicle in front of it. Due to the truck’s weight, these collisions can cause severe damage and injuries and are commonly caused by tailgating, distracted driving, and brake failure.
- Underride accidents: An underride accident occurs when a smaller vehicle slides underneath the rear or side of a semi-truck. These accidents are particularly deadly and can result in severe injuries or fatalities and are typically caused by sudden stops, lack of visibility, and inadequate underride guards.
- Head-on collisions: Head-on collisions between a semi-truck and another vehicle are often fatal due to the immense force involved. Common causes include wrong-way driving, driver fatigue, and impaired driving.
- T-bone collisions: T-bone collisions occur when the front of a semi-truck crashes into the side of another vehicle. These accidents often happen at intersections and are caused by running red lights, failing to yield, and distracted driving.
- Blind spot accidents: Semi-trucks have large blind spots, also known as no-zones, where the driver’s visibility is limited. Blind spot accidents are often caused by inadequate mirrors, driver inattention, and other vehicles’ careless actions.
- Lost load accidents: Lost load accidents happen when cargo falls off a semi-truck and causes accidents on the road. These accidents can be particularly hazardous for following vehicles and are caused by improper loading, overloading, and equipment failure.
- Wide turn accidents: Semi-trucks require a larger turning radius and often swing wide to complete turns. This can result in collisions with vehicles in adjacent lanes caused by improper signaling, driver inexperience, and traffic conditions.
- Brake failure accidents: Brake failure can lead to devastating accidents, especially if the truck travels at high speeds. Causes include poor maintenance, overheating, and defective parts.
- Sideswipe accidents: Sideswipe accidents occur when a semi-truck and another vehicle travel in the same direction, and the sides of the vehicles come into contact. Causes include lane changes, driver fatigue, and distracted driving.
South Carolina Semi-Truck Accidents
According to the South Carolina Traffic Collision Fact Book, nearly 120 fatalities and 1,950 injuries were caused by accidents involving large trucks in 2022. Charleston County had the highest number of traffic accidents, resulting in 57 fatalities and 3,854 injuries. The causes of these semi-truck accidents vary and often include negligence or carelessness.
If another party’s negligence caused an accident resulting in injuries, you may be entitled to pursue compensation through a legal claim. Contact a North Charleston semi-truck accident attorney at Shelly Leeke Law Firm. We have proven results helping clients get justice after semi-truck collisions in North Charleston and throughout South Carolina.
The Impact of Semi-Truck Accidents
Semi-truck accidents can have catastrophic consequences for those involved. The immense size and weight of these vehicles often result in severe injuries or fatalities. The impact of these accidents can be physical, emotional, and financial, causing tremendous hardships for victims and their families.
Physical Injuries
Semi-truck collisions often result in severe injuries due to the size and weight disparity between trucks and passenger vehicles. Common injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal cord injuries
- Fractures and broken bones
- Internal injuries
- Whiplash and neck injuries
- Lacerations and bruises
Emotional and Psychological Trauma
The aftermath of a semi-truck accident can also have profound emotional and psychological effects, such as:
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Depression and anxiety
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Financial Impact
The financial repercussions of a semi-truck accident can be overwhelming, including:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Property damage
- Long-term care
- Funeral arrangements
- Loss of support
Semi-truck accidents in North Charleston can also have broader economic consequences. They can lead to traffic congestion, disruptions to businesses and communities, and a significant burden on the healthcare system. Understanding the full extent of the impact of semi-truck accidents is crucial in advocating for victims and seeking appropriate compensatory damages.
Challenges in Dealing with Insurance Companies After a Semi-Truck Accident
Insurance companies often employ various strategies to minimize their payouts, making it challenging for accident victims to receive fair compensation. Understanding these challenges and how to address them is crucial for a North Charleston personal injury lawyer and anyone involved in a semi-truck accident that they represent. Here are some common challenges you may face when dealing with insurance companies:
- Lowball offers: Insurance adjusters may offer settlements far below the actual value of your claim.
- Denial of claims: Insurers may attempt to deny coverage altogether or claim that the accident was your fault.
- Delay tactics: Insurance companies may delay the claims process to minimize payouts or pressure claimants into accepting low settlements.
- Complex insurance policies: Understanding the intricacies of commercial truck insurance policies can be overwhelming for accident victims.
- Multiple insurance companies: When multiple vehicles or parties are involved, dealing with multiple insurance companies can be confusing and time-consuming.
In addition to these challenges, sometimes insurance companies ask questions after an accident that may be difficult to answer without jeopardizing your claim for fair compensation. You need the help of an experienced semi-truck accident lawyer in North Charleston to help you navigate these challenges and protect your rights. Do not speak to the insurance company before you contact our team at Shelly Leeke Law Firm.
Your Trusted Advocate After a Devastating Collision
Semi-truck accidents can have life-altering consequences, and having an experienced semi-truck accident attorney in North Charleston by your side can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Shelly Leeke Law Firm provides the highest level of legal representation to help you navigate this challenging time and secure the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation and access quality legal representation.
