Large tanker trucks use busy roads daily carrying gas, fuel, or other liquids. The materials they carry are hazardous, and that is why most accidents with tanker trucks result in explosions. Tanker truck companies get guidance from both state and federal law considering their large size and the hazardous materials they carry. Regardless, tankers still get involved in fatal crashes that claim many lives. Between 2016 and 2017, statistics from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), showed that the number of large trucks involved in fatal crashes in the United States increased by 10%, from 4,251 to 4,657.
Factors Leading to Tanker Truck Accidents
Some of the common causes of tanker truck accidents include:
- Driver distraction that is often the result of fatigue, intoxication, or a mobile device
- The trucking company and the trucker failed to maintain the vehicle properly
- The truck driver is driving in a fashion that is reckless given the weather or specific necessities of the tanker itself
- The individuals filling the tank did so in an inappropriate or unsafe fashion
From the above, it is notable that in most tanker accident cases, it is not just the driver of the truck that bears fault. The trucking companies as well can share in the responsibility for their degree of fault. Often, tanker truck accidents result in more deaths than survivors. Where the victims survive, they sustain a lot of burns on the skin, and they get internal injuries as well. Additionally, the accident may result in permanent bodily injuries that the victim must live with for the rest of their lives. Due to the unbearable impact, some victims may lose their memory or develop far worse cognitive conditions that make it impossible for them to continue with their normal routines.
Considering the complexities of such a case, a Wayne tanker truck lawyer will fight to get you fair compensation. An attorney can help you build a strong case for your personal injuries or losses. Contact our legal team at Morelli Law Firm today to have your case reviewed at no charge at (212) 751-9800.
Accidents with Tanker Trucks Often Result in Fatalities
Depending on the type of accident that takes place, if it involves a tanker truck, then there are fatal and inevitable consequences bound to happen. For example, if the accident involves a collision between a tanker and a smaller vehicle, the cargo of the tanker truck can fall on the small car causing all the passengers in the small vehicle to perish. Also, the loads transported in tanker trucks are usually flammable, and this means that impact can ignite a fire and cause a big explosion that affects other vehicles and people near the vicinity of the accident. Tanker accidents can also affect people not directly linked to the accident.
When the cargo burns in the explosion, it emits poisonous gases harmful to human beings. Because of this, you may require continuous treatment for an extended period. Sometimes the toxic gases can cause grave damage to your internal organs such as the heart and lungs.
Wayne Tanker Truck Accident Lawyer Near Me 877-751-9800
Common Injuries Victims May Suffer in a Tanker Crash
Below comprises of the common injuries you or your loved one can suffer from in a tanker accident:
- Burns
- Serious cuts and lacerations
- Polytrauma
- Wrongful death
- Concussion and head injuries
- PTSD
- Whiplash and neck injuries
- Broken bones
- Internal injuries due to exposure to toxic substances
- Back and spinal cord damage
- Brain damage
- Lost limbs
The relatives of a victim can file a wrongful death claim against the responsible party. However, you must establish that the other party is at-fault for the wrongful death. There is no need to prove criminal liability in such cases. Most wrongful deaths that are the result of accidents involving heavy trucks provide for civil liability.
If you or your loved one were injured in an accident with a tanker due to the negligence of another party, a lawyer may be able to help you recover compensation. Our legal team at Morelli Law Firm focuses on personal injury claims and especially those involving accidents and wrongful deaths. Call us today at (212) 751-9800 to have your case reviewed at no cost.
Seek Legal Help After Being Involved in an Accident with a Tanker
A tanker truck attorney can help you in the following ways:
- Assist you in seeking compensation for your loss
- Investigate the matter on your behalf
- Help you to recover lost income, medical and funeral expenses
- Help you navigate the legal complexities surrounding your case
In such cases, it is mostly the family members that have lost a loved one that seeks legal recourse. Through a lawyer, a grieving spouse can seek the following damages: loss of future income, emergency medical care costs, burial costs, and loss of consortium.
A Wayne tanker truck lawyer can also help you through the negotiation process with the at-fault party’s insurance company. Insurance companies handle personal injury claims every day, and for that reason, an attorney can help you navigate the legal system. Where negotiations fail, your attorney can help you initiate legal proceedings in a court of competent jurisdiction. From such an effort, your attorney will fight to recover compensation on your behalf for the injuries sustained.
Contact the Office of a Tanker Truck Accident Attorney Today
Tanker trucks carry hazardous materials such as gasoline, and petroleum, among other liquids. The said materials are highly explosive, and this means that, when accidents occur, those close to the truck can suffer grave injuries. Unforeseen events such as tanker truck accidents can take a huge toll on you. An attorney can help you pursue compensation for your personal injuries and other expenses. If you or your family member has suffered harm in a tanker accident, contact a tanker truck attorney at Morelli Law Firm. Call us today for a free case evaluation at (212) 751-9800.