Many different kinds of commercial trucks travel regularly through the Athens area delivering consumer and commercial products. Unfortunately, truck drivers, trucking companies, and other companies sometimes prioritize profits and speedy deliveries over the safety of travelers on the roads.
When trucks get into accidents, such as rollover truck accidents in Athens, people in other vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists are often hurt. If a rollover trucking crash harmed you or your family member, our experienced semi-truck collision attorneys at the Massey Law Group know how to help you fight back. We can use our experience to help hold the responsible parties legally accountable for your physical, emotional, and financial losses resulting from the truck rollover.
Many different factors can contribute to or cause an Athens truck to roll over. Unfortunately, tractor-trailer trucks are inherently more likely to roll over than other types of motor vehicles. Their boxy designs and shapes make them top-heavy and more likely to roll over. Although truck manufacturers have taken steps to minimize the risks of rollovers, truck drivers still need to act cautiously when operating them.
When a truck driver operates their vehicle too quickly, they can increase the risk of a rollover occurring. The extra speed can cause enough force to cause the truck to flip over.
Many rollovers occur because an inexperienced truck driver takes a curve too sharply. Large trucks handle differently, particularly when turning. Truck drivers need to plan for their turns in advance. If they try to execute a sudden, sharp turn, they could force the truck to roll over.
Trucks have specific weight limits. If a truck has too much cargo or if the load is not securely balanced, the truck could be more likely to roll over.
Poor weather can make the roads more slick, which can make trucks less stable and prone to sliding or rolling over. Trucking companies should check weather forecasts before sending their drivers out onto the roads, and truck drivers should modify their driving behaviors when the weather turns bad, such as by slowing down or stopping.
Our skilled lawyers understand how frustrating trucking rollovers can be and will work tirelessly to help you.
Most people tend to blame truck drivers for Athens rollover trucking wrecks. However, the trucker might not be the only responsible party. Often, there are other factors that contribute to trucking wrecks.
The trucking company that employed the driver could be responsible under the theory of vicarious liability, in which employers are held responsible for the negligent actions of their employees. If the truck driver drove drunk, too fast, while distracted, or made unsafe lane changes, the trucking company could be held liable.
The trucking company could also be liable for failing to train their drivers on how to handle large commercial trucks, for hiring drivers with poor driving records, or for setting unrealistic time deadlines that encouraged truckers to drive for too long or too fast.
If the truck had too much cargo, the company that loaded the freight could be held liable.
If a truck part failed due to overuse or wear and tear, the mechanic in charge of inspections and repairs could be to blame.
If the truck rolled over because of a mechanical or design mistake, the manufacturer could be liable.
Our attorneys can help identify all potentially responsible parties in order to help you obtain the maximum possible compensation for your losses.
Rollover truck accidents in Athens can have devastating consequences. Our knowledgeable attorneys at the Massey Law Group can protect your rights and help you pursue a lawsuit for compensation. Contact our firm today.