The Different Types at Truck Accidents

Did you know there were over 24,600 truck accidents in 2020 on Texas roads? Three Texas counties—Harris, Dallas, and Tarrant—are unfortunately even in the top ten for trucking accidents nationwide. 

While these statistics are a little unnerving and may make you think twice about passing a semi-truck, it also doesn’t mean you can’t stay safe on Texas highways. You can take steps to help avoid being involved in a trucking accident.

Common Types of Truck Accidents

Just like there are different types of vehicle accidents, the same applies to ones involving large trucks. Tires can blow out, loads can become unbalanced, and equipment can malfunction. To help guide you, here’s a look at some of the common types of truck accidents.

Blindspot Accidents

All motor vehicles have blind spots, including compact cars. Blind spots are typically located on the sides, front, and rear of vehicles. 

You know the area you can’t see regardless of which sideview mirror you use? This is an example of a blind spot. The primary difference with 18-wheelers is the blind spot’s size. Trucks have larger blind spots compared to passenger vehicles, SUVs, and pickup trucks.

When a vehicle is in a truck’s blind spot, the semi’s driver usually has no idea the car is even there in the first place. While truck drivers are required to check all mirrors before merging into another lane, this doesn’t help if you’re in their blind spot. 

The truck driver may inadvertently cause an accident, and it may not be entirely their fault. You may also be assigned some of the blame. Don’t forget that Texas follows comparative negligence rules which means more than one driver can be responsible for causing a truck accident.

Head-on Collisions

A head-on collision is frightening when only passenger vehicles are involved. Just imagine how catastrophic the damage can be when a car is hit head-on by a semi-truck. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, head-on collisions accounted for over 50% of accident fatalities in 2022.

Head-on collisions are precisely what the name implies. A truck crashes into another vehicle head-on. If you’re still a little confused, this type of accident happens when the front of a truck hits the hood (front end) of another vehicle.

How do head-on collisions occur? Driver fatigue is a primary cause, when a truck driver dozes off behind the wheel and drifts over into oncoming traffic. Distracted driving and operating a motor vehicle under the influence are other common causes of head-on collisions. 

Remember, this type of accident isn’t always caused by the truck driver. Motorists can also drift into oncoming traffic and hit a semi head-on.

Jackknife Accidents

Jackknife truck accidents are usually more common in rural areas. The reason for this varies, but can include rural roads are often less maintained compared to highways in urban areas. 

Sharp curves are also more common on rural roads, and don’t forget hazards like fallen branches. This isn’t implying trucks don’t jackknife in densely populated areas, only that it seems to occur more frequently in rural locations.

When a truck jackknifes, the trailer swings out towards the cab. As the trailer is sliding out, it can sweep up vehicles in the side lane. Some vehicles may even become pinned underneath the trailer, resulting in severe injuries and possible fatalities.

Sideswipe and Rear-end Crashes

Semis are large and heavy vehicles that can’t stop on a dime, even if the trailer is empty. Trucks need around five or six seconds to come to a complete stop. 

If you’re the lead vehicle and slam on your brakes, there’s no guarantee the truck will be able to stop in time. If you’re lucky, the 18-wheeler will only slam into the rear of your vehicle. The worst-case scenario is the truck will finally come to a stop on top of your car.

Sideswiping a truck usually happens when a driver doesn’t give the big rig enough clearance when it’s making a turn. Trucks need plenty of room to turn, sometimes more than the width of a single lane. If you’re driving too close to the side of a truck when it’s turning, there’s a good chance your vehicle will be involved in a sideswipe accident.

Unsecured Load Accidents

Thankfully, most trucking companies and drivers pay close attention to trailer loads. They make sure the loads are evenly balanced and secured. When a load shifts during transit it can result in anything from a jackknife accident to the truck overturning.

While you can’t do anything about a truck’s load, you can take precautions to help ensure your safety. This includes not following too close behind a truck and giving it plenty of room when you’re the lead vehicle. You also don’t want to drive for extended periods beside a semi-truck. 

Try to pass a truck as quickly and safely as possible—this way, if the load shifts at all, you’re at a safe distance behind it so you can adjust.

Rollover Accidents

When a semi-truck rolls over, injuries and damage are often severe. This is also the most dangerous type of accident for truck drivers. A rollover accident can occur for several reasons including a tire blowout, speeding, and load shifting.

All truck drivers should always wear their seatbelts, and yes, it’s the law in Texas. Other vehicle drivers should keep a safe distance from trucks to avoid being caught in a rollover accident.

Underride Accidents

If you’re tailgating a big rig, there’s a chance you can be involved in an underride accident. This type of accident occurs when a vehicle ends up underneath a semi-truck. A truck can brake suddenly  before you have time to respond, resulting in your vehicle being pinned underneath.

Both truck drivers and motorists can take steps to avoid this type of accident. Motorists can keep a safe distance between their vehicles and the truck. Truck owners can install metal barriers on the rear of the trailer to prevent vehicles from sliding underneath.

Contact an Attorney If You’re Involved In a Truck Accident

Hopefully, you're never involved in a truck accident, as the resulting damage can be quite significant and even life-changing. However, if you are injured in a trucking accident, you may be eligible for compensation for your damages. 

Make sure that you consult with an experienced attorney to explore your legal options and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. An attorney can guide you through the complex legal process, helping to protect your rights and secure a fair outcome for your case.