When most people think of 18-wheelers, they often imagine the long, rectangular trailers that are hauled down the highway. While these are certainly one type of commercial truck, there are many others, as well. For example, when cargo does not fit into one of these trailers, a flatbed truck is sometimes used. On the other hand, when liquid or gas needs to be transported, a typical 18-wheeler is not an appropriate vehicle to transport these items. Instead, a tanker truck must be used.
Tanker trucks can cause just as many serious injuries as other types of commercial vehicles because they are still much heavier and larger than passenger vehicles. After an accident with this type of truck, you can file a claim for compensation that will cover your losses. A Fort Lauderdale tanker truck accident lawyer will help ensure you receive the fair settlement you deserve.
Our Fort Lauderdale Tanker Truck Accident Lawyer Describes These Vehicles
Tanker trucks have both a cab and a trailer, just like other commercial vehicles. However, the trailer on a tanker truck is quite unique from others. Instead of being long and rectangular, they are cylindrical, although they are still just as long and heavy. Tanker trucks are not loaded and unloaded in the same manner as other trucks. These vehicles also have a much higher center of gravity than other commercial vehicles, making them much harder to control. When this type of truck is involved in an accident, it is typically even more severe and causes a great deal of damage.
Our Fort Lauderdale Tanker Truck Accident Lawyer Outlines Cargo Issues with These Vehicles
The cargo carried on a tanker truck is vastly different from that which is carried on other types of commercial vehicles. Many tanker trucks in fact, are divided into different sections, so the trucker can carry different types of cargo at the same time. The cargo the truck is carrying is always an important consideration in truck accident claims, it raises other issues when a tanker truck is involved.
When the cargo a tanker truck is carrying is liquid, it has to be loaded in a certain way so it does not cause an accident. When tanks are overfilled, the liquid can slosh around in the tank as the truck moves, particularly when the truck makes a turn. That movement of liquid can throw the entire truck off balance and cause a crash. When a driver cannot maintain a balanced truck, it becomes much easier for them to lose control of the truck. Lastly, any time a tanker truck accident occurs, the cargo can also spill onto the roadway, and that can also pose a danger to other motorists.
Common Causes of Tanker Truck Accidents in Fort Lauderdale
Tanker truck accidents can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Driver negligence: Tanker truck drivers are required to have special training and experience, but even the most experienced drivers can make mistakes. Driver negligence can include things like distracted driving, drunk driving, speeding, and failing to yield the right-of-way.
- Equipment failure: Tanker trucks are complex vehicles, and there are many things that can go wrong with them. Equipment failure can include things like brake failure, tire failure, and steering failure.
- Improper loading or unloading: Tanker trucks must be loaded and unloaded carefully to avoid accidents. Improper loading or unloading can cause the truck to become unbalanced or overloaded, which can lead to a crash.
- Road conditions: Road conditions such as potholes, uneven pavement, and poor visibility can also contribute to tanker truck accidents.
If you have been injured in a tanker truck accident in Fort Lauderdale, it is important to contact an experienced tanker truck accident lawyer as soon as possible. A lawyer can help you investigate the cause of the accident and determine who is liable for your injuries. They can also help you file a claim and negotiate with the insurance company to get the compensation you deserve.
Our Tanker Truck Accident Lawyer in Fort Lauderdale Can Help You Claim Compensation
After a tanker truck crash, you may be entitled to compensation. At Rosen Injury Law, P.A., our Fort Lauderdale tanker truck accident lawyer can determine what caused your crash, and will help you hold the negligent party liable for paying full damages. Call us today at 954-787-1500 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.
