The Colorado
Truck Accident Attorneys
To share the road with large trucks like an 18-wheeler, can be nerve-racking. Semi trucks often weigh thousands of pounds more than the average motor vehicle, and carry thousands of pounds more in cargo. As a result, semi trucks cannot maneuver or stop as well as smaller vehicles, and since highways in Colorado can get treacherous, sharing the road becomes difficult. Because of the huge weight and size difference, accidents between large trucks and passenger cars are generally much more serious.
If you have been involved in an accident with a large truck, contact the Colorado truck accident attorneys at The Ramos Law Firm as soon as possible, or complete this form for a no-cost evaluation of your situation.
The Colorado Truck Accident Attorneys
Large truck accidents are usually caused by circumstances that could have been prevented. However, that reason may be quite difficult to find. There are many things to consider when investigating large truck accidents. Some to consider include applicable federal laws, state laws, municipal laws, the records and certifications of the driver and the large truck, and the policies of the shipping and trucking companies.
Unfortunately, you may find that if you are involved in a large truck accident, you could end up fighting with your own insurance company. The same insurance company you pay to protect you and your family may not be there for you like you thought they would be. It is not uncommon to have to fight with two insurance companies, yours and the large truck’s. This is why it is important that you contact your large truck accident attorney as soon as possible.
National Large Truck Accident Statistics
The 2015 Traffic Safety Facts sheet published by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that 4,311 trucks were involved in fatal accidents in 2015 across the country, which is an 8 percent increase from 2014. The number of large trucks involved in injury-causing crashes has increased 62 percent from 2009 to 2015.
Other notable findings from the report include:
- In 2.2 percent of fatal accidents involving a large truck, alcohol was detected in the blood of the truck drivers
- In 1.5 percent of the fatal accidents involving large trucks, the truck driver had a BAC of more than .08
- 21 percent of all fatal accidents involving large truck were single-vehicle crashes.
- 63 percent of fatal accidents involving large trucks involve two vehicles
The report also noted that 83 percent of fatal and 89 percent of non-fatal large truck accidents occurred during the workweek when the roadways are more heavily trafficked.[1]
Colorado Large Truck Accident Statistics
Despite the hazardous terrain and severe weather in Colorado, the number of large truck fatal crashes is far below the hundreds that occurred in California, Texas, and Florida. However, the statistics for our state reflect how much further we have to go with traffic safety.
The NHTSA reports that in 2015, there were 547 total fatal motor vehicle crashes in Colorado. 64 of those crashes involved a large truck.[1] While there are usually a complex set of issues behind nearly all large truck accidents, some of the most common include:
- Vehicle-related failure
- Following too closely to respond to unexpected situations
- Overcompensation
- Fatigue and falling asleep at the wheel
- Cardiac arrest or other physical issue
Other factors that are commonly associated to large truck accidents include:
- Brake issues
- Unfamiliarity with the surroundings
- Working under pressure
- Tire issues
- Illegal drug use
- Driving under the influence of alcohol
Colorado Trucking Accident
Frequently Asked Questions
The Ramos Injury Firm has compiled a list of a few of the questions we have answered over the years about Colorado laws and large truck accidents.
What is the first thing I should do if I am in a large truck accident?
Call local law enforcement to the accident scene and go to the nearest hospital. Have any injury examined by a physician as soon as you can, and take pictures of your injuries as well as any damage to both your vehicle and the large truck. If you are able, get the large truck insurance information, however, the police will also require that information. Contact your accident attorney as soon as you can so they can begin building your case.
I was taken straight to the hospital by ambulance after being hit by a large truck. Does that mean I don’t get to give a statement to the police?
No, the police will begin investigating the crash as soon as they arrive. They should also try to obtain a statement from you as soon as you are well enough to give it. If you are well enough, you can call the police and request to submit an addition to the official traffic accident report. If you contact your attorney, they will also want details about the accident and will make sure you have given all the necessary information to the authorities.
If I was in a collision with a large truck and I believe it was the other driver’s fault, can I file a claim for compensation for my injuries and vehicle?
Yes. If you were involved in an accident with a large truck, you may be eligible to file for compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and damage for your vehicle. Speak to your attorney as soon as possible about the accident so they can evaluate your case and guide you through the complex legal system.
Have You Been Injured in a
Colorado Large Truck Accident?
The Colorado large truck accident attorneys at Ramos Law have been fighting for the rights of accident victims for nearly a quarter century and they stand ready to fight for the compensation you deserve. Emergency medical physician and attorney Joseph Ramos and the commercial truck accident team at Ramos Law have the skills and experience to guide you through complex legal and medical processes.
If you have been hurt in a large truck accident in Colorado call (303) 731-4477 to speak to one of our truck accident lawyers today for a complimentary evaluation.
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