Truck accidents can be devastating, especially on Connecticut's busy highways like I-95 and I-84, where commercial vehicles regularly share the road with passenger cars.
If you think truck accidents are rare, think again. A recent CT Insider report reveals they happen at a staggeringly high rate. In 2023 alone, there were 1,736 accidents involving trucks or buses. With that statistic, Connecticut earned the No. 5 spot for states with the most dangerous roads for trucks.
The truck accident rate is tied to Connecticut’s traffic congestion problem, CT Insider reports. Hartford, New Haven, Waterbury, and, in particular, Stamford, have some of the worst congestion in the state.
Understanding the risks of Connecticut truck accidents
Due to the size and weight of trucks, collisions often result in severe injuries, significant property damage, and even fatalities. Understanding the risks of truck accidents is essential for staying safe on the road, as well as knowing when to seek legal help.
The following are some of the top factors that lead to truck accidents in Connecticut:
Size and Weight Disparity
The sheer size and weight difference between trucks and smaller vehicles make accidents more dangerous. In a collision, the smaller vehicle often sustains more severe damage, and occupants are at a higher risk of serious injury, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and broken bones.
Driver Fatigue
Truck drivers are often under pressure to meet tight deadlines, which can lead to long hours on the road. Even with regulations in place to limit driving time, driver fatigue remains a major issue.
Blind Spots
Trucks have large blind spots, often referred to as "no-zones," where smaller vehicles can disappear from a truck driver’s view. If a driver fails to check these blind spots before changing lanes or turning, it can result in a serious collision.
Improper Maintenance
Poorly maintained trucks pose a significant risk on the road. Mechanical failures, such as brake malfunctions or tire blowouts, can cause drivers to lose control of the vehicle. Federal regulations require regular maintenance checks, but not all trucking companies comply, leading to preventable accidents.
Severe Weather
Connecticut is no stranger to unpredictable weather, with heavy rain, snow, and ice creating hazardous driving conditions. Trucks are particularly susceptible to losing control in these conditions due to their size and difficulty stopping quickly. Slick roads and high speeds can lead to multi-vehicle pileups, especially on busy interstates.
Reckless Driving
Speeding, distracted driving, and aggressive behavior, such as tailgating, can make truck accidents more likely. When truck drivers or the drivers of passenger vehicles engage in reckless behavior, it increases the danger for everyone on the road. Given the time it takes for a truck to slow down or stop, sudden lane changes or cutting off a truck can result in catastrophic accidents.
How a Connecticut truck accident lawyer can help
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident in Connecticut, an experienced attorney can help you navigate the complex legal landscape. Trucking accidents often involve multiple parties, including drivers, trucking companies, and insurance providers.
Contact the Law Offices of Mark E. Salomone & Morelli, serving all of Connecticut. We aggressively advocate for our clients’ rights. We investigate the accident, deal with insurance companies, and will take your case to court if a fair settlement cannot be reached.
Truck accidents are inherently more dangerous than typical car accidents, and the aftermath can be life-altering. A knowledgeable accident lawyer with our firm can ensure your rights are protected and help you recover the compensation you need to move forward. To see how we can help you, contact us today for a free consultation.