Maryland Trucking Accident Lawyer Blog
While the majority of Maryland truck accidents are results of driver error, a significant portion of truck accidents are caused by faulty equipment. Indeed, according to recent government statistics, the single most common cause of truck accidents is brake failure, which accounts for approximately 15,000 truck accidents each year. The second most common equipment error is tire-related issues, which are responsible for about 3,000 accidents per year.
Truck drivers, like other motorists, are responsible to maintain their vehicles. This includes making sure that all critical systems are in good working condition before heading out on the road. Truck drivers must also take care to ensure that their cargo loads are safely packed to avoid cargo shift, which is another leading cause of truck accidents.
When a truck driver fails to take the necessary precautions, and an equipment failure causes an accident, the truck driver may be held liable for any injuries that occur as a result of the equipment failure. In some cases, the trucking company that owns the truck or employs the driver may also be held liable.
Woman Killed After Truck’s Wheel Hub Comes Loose and Crashes Through Her Windshield
Earlier this month, a woman and her unborn baby were killed when they were involved in a fatal accident on an Illinois highway. According to a recent news report covering the tragic accident, the mother of three was eight months pregnant at the time of the accident.
Evidently, the woman was driving on the highway when a semi-truck in front of her lost one of its wheel hubs. The hub – which weighed approximately 100 pounds – came bouncing toward the woman’s vehicle. The woman was unable to avoid the hub, which ended up crashing through her windshield. She was immediately transported to the hospital, where she was pronounced dead a short time later.
Authorities have begun an investigation into the fatal truck accident, and they did issue the truck driver with a Federal Motor Carrier Safety Act violation for unsafe equipment. At this point, it remains to be seen if the woman’s family will pursue a wrongful death claim against the truck driver or any other party responsible for maintaining the truck.
Have You Been Injured in a Maryland Truck Accident?
If you or a loved one has recently been injured in a Maryland truck accident, you may be entitled to monetary compensation through a Maryland personal injury lawsuit. Depending on the specifics of the accident and the extent of your injuries, you may be able to obtain amounts for past and future medical expenses, lost wages, and any pain and suffering you have endured as a result of the truck accident. To learn more, and to schedule a free consultation with an attorney to discuss your case, call 410-654-3600 today. Calling is free, and we will not bill you for our services unless we are able to assist you in obtaining the compensation you deserve.
More Blog Posts:
Maryland Truck Driver Claims Faulty Brakes Were Responsible for Serious Multi-Vehicle Accident, Maryland Trucking Accident Lawyer Blog, published February 19, 2018.
Major Truck Accident on Snowy Road Sends 29 to the Hospital, Maryland Trucking Accident Lawyer Blog, published March 5, 2018.