Every year nearly 500,000 large trucks, commonly known as tractor-trailers or ‘semis,’ are involved in traffic accidents in the United States. Of all these accidents, roughly 5,000 result in fatalities. In fact, one out of every eighth traffic fatality is caused by a catastrophic fender-bender with a large truck. Not surprisingly, most of the deaths and injuries involve passengers of the vehicles that tractor-trailers collided with. Truck drivers typically escaped unscathed from such accidents.
Today, the Federal government requires tractor-trailer and other large truck operators to acquire a commercial driver’s license and undergo limited drug and alcohol testing. However, many truck safety advocates question the effectiveness of the licensing and testing program, since they don’t seem to work.
In severe accidents it may be important to contact a specialized tractor-trailer accident attorney who is experienced and can better help you protect your legal rights. Please keep in mind that there may be time limits within which you must commence your legal suit. It is therefore advisable to discuss your case at length with your chosen attorney.
Since it is not possible for everyone to visit the offices of attorneys at law, there are lawyers who advertise on the Internet. Some even evaluate your case free of charge, giving you a better idea of what is best suited to you. In some cases, you may not be required to pay any fees or costs unless your attorney recovers money for you.
If you have been injured, or a loved one has been killed or injured in an accident involving a tractor-trailer or other large truck, it is important to consider all your legal options. By: ALISON COLE