What Are the Five Biggest Causes of Big Rig Crashes in South Bend?

Big rig crashes devastate lives across South Bend, turning routine commutes into life-altering events in seconds. Each year, these massive commercial vehicles, weighing up to 80,000 pounds, collide with passenger vehicles on I-80, US-31 and our local streets, which could lead to catastrophic results.

If you are involved in a truck accident, do not hesitate to speak to a trusted attorney. They can help you determine your legal options and help you recover after a car crash. At Pfeifer, Morgan and Stesiak, our South Bend truck accident lawyers have years of experience assisting clients in securing millions of dollars in compensation.

Call to speak with one of our lawyers today. We can determine the validity of your case and help you decide your legal options. We do not charge upfront costs or fees for our legal services and only get paid after we have secured your compensation.

Schedule a free consultation today: (574) 444-0741.

What Are the Most Common Causes of Big Rig Accidents?

Various types of truck accidents happen on South Bend roads, from underride to jackknife accidents. Below are some of the five most frequent causes of truck crashes.

Driver Fatigue

Long hours behind the wheel lead to delayed reaction times and poor decision-making. Despite federal regulations limiting driving hours, many truck drivers may push beyond safe limits to meet tight deadlines or unrealistic quotas a trucking company sets.

Distracted Driving

Cell phones, GPS devices and onboard computers can pull truck drivers’ attention from the road. Even a seemingly minor distracted driving behaviors at highway speeds can have catastrophic results.

Speeding and Reckless Driving

Delivery pressures often cause truckers to exceed the limit, especially on I-80 and US-31. Tailgating behind a vehicle could increase the risk of a truck driver rear-ending another driver.

Poor Truck Maintenance

Faulty brakes, worn tires and neglected safety systems turn these massive vehicles into highway hazards. Trucking companies must follow strict maintenance schedules but sometimes cut corners to save money and resources.

Improper Cargo Loading

Unbalanced or secured loads can shift during transport, causing jackknifing or rollovers. Proper cargo loading and securing are key for safe vehicle operation.

How Do Semi-Truck Crashes Differ From Car Accidents?

Due to their massive size and weight, big rig crashes create devastation far beyond typical car accidents. When an 80,000-pound truck collides with a passenger vehicle weighing just about 4,000 pounds, the physics of the impact often leads to catastrophic injuries and extensive damage. The sheer force generated can demolish smaller vehicles and cause severe trauma to occupants.

These commercial vehicles also face unique mechanical challenges that increase accident risks. Their extended stopping distances, broad turning requirements and significant blind spots make them harder to maneuver in emergencies. Truckers must diligently monitor the road and follow safety best practices to avoid jackknifing truck accidents or rollover situations. This elevated duty of care is expected of truck drivers due to the potential for greater damage if a crash occurs, especially in adverse weather or during sudden traffic changes.

Big rig crashes cause catastrophic damage to the occupants of smaller vehicles,  particularly to the brain and vital organs, due to the extreme forces involved. Victims often face more extended recovery periods and more complicated medical treatments compared to typical car crash injuries. When multiple vehicles become involved, the casualty count could most likely multiply.

Who May Be Liable After a Big Rig Crash?

Multiple parties may be liable after a big rig crash. However, liability depends on what happens during a car crash. Here are some of the parties that may be liable after a big rig crash.

• Truck Driver: A truck driver could be liable if he or she is speeding or driving recklessly.
• The Trucking Company: This party could become liable if they fail to train or hire drivers who do not qualify.
• Parts Manufacturers: They could become liable for defective components or providing inadequate warnings.
• Cargo Loading Companies: This party may become at fault for improper loading or if they violate weight limits.
• Maintenance Providers: If maintenance providers conduct negligent repairs, they may become liable for truck accidents.

How Is Liability for a Big Rig Crash Determined

Determining liability in a big rig crash requires a thorough investigation of multiple factors, such as:

• Evidence Collection: police reports, witness statements, vehicle damage documentation and more.
• Expert Analysis: Medical professionals, accident reconstruction specialists and safety compliance experts can provide statements to determine liability.
• Questions Investigated: Some questions that may be investigated in a case include whether the driver followed regulations and if the parts were properly maintained.

What Should You Do If a Negligent Truck Driver Causes a Crash?

Call 911 immediately after a car crash and seek medical assistance immediately. If possible, move your vehicle out of traffic and the accident scene.

Document the accident scene. If you can physically take photos and videos of damage. Also, collect the truck driver’s information, such as their phone number and insurance. Gather information on witnesses who may have seen the car crash.

After the truck crash, keep track of your medical records, such as bills and diagnostic tests. If your injuries keep you from working, have documents that prove lost wages.

Can You Sue a Trucking Company After a Big Rig Accident?

Yes, you can sue a trucking company after a big rig accident in South Bend. Indiana law allows victims to pursue claims against both the truck driver and the trucking company through the principle of vicarious liability. The trucking company can be held responsible for their driver’s negligence if the accident occurred within the scope of that driver’s employment. Additionally, companies may be directly liable for negligent hiring, inadequate training or poor maintenance practices.

Victims typically have two years from the accident date to file a lawsuit under Indiana’s statute of limitations. Damages may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. It’s important to gather evidence quickly after the accident, as trucking companies maintain records like driver logs and maintenance reports that could be crucial to your case.

Call Pfeifer, Morgan and Stesiak After a Big Rig Crash? We Are Here To Help

After a semi-truck collides with a passenger vehicle, the impact could alter victims’ health, income and relationships.

At Pfeifer, Morgan & Stesiak, our highly qualified legal team has seen firsthand the trauma victims experience, and we want to help. Although we cannot change what has happened, we are deeply committed to holding the at-fault parties accountable and fighting to recover the compensation you need and deserve.

Call our office today to speak with an attorney at (574) 444-0741.