A recent accident in St. Paul Park involved a train hauling volatile oil colliding with a semi-trailer full of flour. This incident provides an amazing illustration of the incredible forces at play in accidents of this kind. While fortunately no one was hurt in this particular crash, images from the scene are dramatic. Our truck accident attorneys are all too familiar with scenes like this, and we know firsthand how disastrous truck accidents can be.
The Unique Dangers of Commercial Truck Accidents
The sheer size of the vehicles involved in commercial trucking accidents creates the potential for catastrophic personal injuries, especially when a passenger vehicle is hit. Cars are designed with safety features that can withstand the forces of similar-sized vehicles, but the physical force involved in a truck accident is an entirely different matter. Add to this a freight of hazardous or flammable materials, and the dangers are multiplied further.
There are a myriad of factors that can lead to a truck accident, including:
- Distracted truck drivers
- A truck driver using cell phone or texting
- Tight trucking schedules that promote speeding
- Driving through construction zones
- Dangerous weather or road conditions
- Driving under the influence of stimulants or other drugs
- An overloaded or improperly loaded truck
- Driver fatigue
While truck operators are some of the safest drivers on the road, they can still be held responsible under these circumstances. In addition, freight loaders, trucking companies, and truck manufacturers may also be responsible if they contribute to causing an accident.
If you are looking for an experienced Minneapolis truck accident lawyer, please contact Goldenberg Lauricella today for a free consultation.