Get Help From A Truck Accident Attorney In Aiken, SC
Crashes involving large trucks tend to result in serious and potentially life threatening personal injuries for drivers due to the large size and bulk of the vehicles involved. A recent collision which occurred on Old Barnwell road highlights the potential dangers and steps you need to take to keep you and your passengers safe. If you’ve been hurt, a truck accident attorney can help you obtain the compensation you deserve.
Collision Claims Life Of Aiken Man
WRDW reported a collision which occurred in January 2018, claiming the life of an Aiken man. The driver was headed down Old Barnwell Road in the morning hours, when he crashed into the back of a garbage truck stopped for collections. Two of the workers narrowly escaped life-threatening injuries, leaping out of harm's way just before the collision occurred.
Truck Accident Statistics & Causes
This incident highlights some of the potential dangers that can arise when sharing the road with trucks. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), close to 4,000 people die in these accidents each year. Most commonly, those killed or severely injured are drivers in other vehicles. Trucks in general are much larger and can weigh anywhere from 20 to 30 times more than regular vehicles. When a collision occurs, this can have potentially deadly impacts, depending on the speeds involved and the point of collision. Common factors motorists need to be aware of when sharing the road with trucks include:
Following too closely: In addition to putting you in their blind spot, following a truck too closely could leave you vulnerable in the event of sudden stops, such as in the Barnwell Road accident.
Passing: Truck drivers have extended blind spots along the side, making it important to drivers to use caution and move quickly when attempting to pass.
Tailgating: If a truck driver appears to be tailgating you, your safest move is to get out of the way to prevent potentially a fatal crash due to sudden changes in traffic conditions.
The above accident highlights another common concern among all drivers, which is the need to be alert and to pay full attention when behind the wheel at all times.
Protecting Yourself On The Road
Law enforcement has yet to give a full reason for the accident or to release toxicology reports. As the driver of the car struck the rear of the garbage truck while it was stopped, it is likely he did not see or notice that the vehicle was no longer moving until it was too late to respond.
Anytime you are driving, it is important to watch your speed, to keep both hands on the wheel, and to avoid any distractions that take your eyes or your mind off the road. The motorists surrounding you may make sudden stops or movements at any time, and a split second is all it takes for a tragic accident to occur.
In the unfortunate event that you or a loved one are involved in an accident, you may benefit from a consultation with a truck accident attorney to discuss your options.
Get Help Today
If you or a loved one is involved in a car or truck accident, our Aiken team is here to help. To speak with a qualified truck accident attorney, contact the Surasky Law Firm, LLC to find out how we can assist you.
