A tanker truck crashed into a passenger vehicle on Interstate 16 early in the morning on June 19, causing the death of three people. Officials with the Georgia State Patrol stated that the Treutlen County accident occurred when the truck hit the back of a Toyota Scion, causing both vehicles to cross the highway median into oncoming traffic lanes. All three people in the car died from the crash, while the truck driver suffered significant injuries.

Since April 2015, I-16 has had three deadly accidents involving large trucks. Nationwide, trucking accidents cause almost 5,000 deaths per year. Because of the size difference between trucks and cars, truck accidents usually result in more damage than standard car accidents.

Trucking accidents may be the result of driver fatigue, inexperience or lack of proper training. Accidents may also result from improperly balanced loads, fuel fires or the truck’s inability to brake at a fast enough rate. To help reduce the number of trucking accidents, state and federal laws regulate safety measures for both truck drivers and their vehicles.

If you are involved in a trucking accident, it is important to take note of whether the driver of the vehicle was obeying the law during the time of the crash. Trucking laws hold truck drivers accountable for working approved hours on trips, maintaining their vehicles and holding proper insurance coverage. Additionally, state laws can mandate that a driver sleep a certain number of hours per day. Finally, all truck drivers must obey speed limits at all time.

In trucking accidents, a trucking company — not the actual truck driver — may be liable for damages. It is important to consult with a knowledgeable attorney so that the proper party can be held accountable.

If you have been injured in a truck accident, speak with an experienced personal injury lawyer at McMenamy Law LLC right away.