Most Common Types of Truck Accidents in South Carolina (2024)

Truck accidents are particularly frightening. The size of the vehicles and their trailers can create significant danger for others who might be involved in a collision. These victims may face significant expenses, which are the responsibility of whoever caused the accident. While a Myrtle Beach, South Carolina truck accident lawyer may be able to help these victims seek compensation, it’s better to avoid the accident in the first place.

It’s important to be aware of some of the most common truck accidents in South Carolina. That way, you can take steps to avoid trucking accidents if you find yourself in a high-risk situation.

Common Types of Truck Accidents

While trucks are capable of ending up in all the same kinds of accidents that occur with any other motor vehicle, there are some unique risks involved with the shape, size, and even use of trucks. Some of these include:

• Jackknife Accidents: These accidents occur most frequently on slippery or wet surfaces. This causes the trailer to swing out from behind the cab of the truck, and the shape resembles a jackknife. The driver often has very little ability to control the truck at that point, and it could even lead to the trailer rolling over.
• Tire Blowouts: Truck tires receive a lot of wear, and they could blow out, making controlling the truck difficult or impossible for the river.
• Underside Accidents: Trucks or, more specifically, their trailers, sit high off the ground. In some accidents, this can lead to smaller vehicles potentially becoming wedged underneath the truck.
• Blind Spot Issues: Given the size of trucks, there can be significant blind spots for the driver. They have extra mirrors to try to address the issue, but it’s not a perfect solution. These blind spots can become an issue when the driver is trying to merge lanes or make a turn.
• Rear-End Collisions: Like any vehicle, a truck could end up rear-ending another vehicle if there are braking issues or if a truck driver hasn’t left enough stopping space. However, because of the size of trucks, a rear-end collision can often be more serious and impactful than when a car is involved.
• Cargo Spill Accidents: Because trucks are often carrying some sort of cargo, an accident or other issue could lead to that cargo being spilled everywhere. Other vehicles could collide or slip on the spilled cargo. There could also be further issues involved if the spill consists of hazardous materials.
• Fatigue Issues: Truck drivers are on the roads for many hours, and it’s possible that fatigue could set in. This could lead to issues like a lack of focus and slower reaction times, making an accident more likely. While there are regulations governing driving time and rest time for commercial drivers, nothing is foolproof.
• Distracted Driving: It’s possible that a truck driver could cause an accident by paying more attention to something in their cab, possibly their phone, than the road. This could be especially risky.
• Wide Turns: Trucks require a very wide angle when making a turn. If the driver of another vehicle is unaware of the need for trucks to make a wide turn, it can lead to an accident.

FAQs

Q: What Should I Do If I’ve Been in a Truck Accident?

A: If you’ve been in a truck accident in South Carolina, it’s always important to seek medical help first. This will hopefully begin your recovery from these injuries and also document them for later compensation. Additionally, if your injuries allow, it can be valuable to document the scene of the accident with photos and videos.

You will also want to make sure that you don’t admit to any fault in the accident, as this could inhibit your opportunity to collect damages. Once everything at the scene is settled, you will want to consider quickly contacting a lawyer, as they can help guide you through your next steps.

Q: What Compensation Is Available for Truck Accident Victims?

A: The compensation owed to victims of truck accidents must address all costs that are a direct result of the accident and injuries that were caused by the defendant. Non-economic damages address psychological costs, such as pain and suffering or loss of enjoyment in life. The financial award may serve as an indirect means of addressing these issues.

Economic damages will usually include medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and any other clearly financial costs under economic damages. Future expenses, such as medical bills and lost earning capacity, are also included.

Q: When Should a Truck Accident Claim Be Filed By?

A: A truck accident will need to be filed by the three-year deadline that is set in the statute of limitations for personal injury claims. However, there could be some exceptions in certain circumstances. It could be a shortened window under some circumstances, such as when you’re filing against the government. It could also be extended in situations where a minor is involved or the injuries weren’t discovered until much later. A truck accident lawyer can help you understand the deadline that applies to your claim.

Q: What Does a South Carolina Truck Accident Lawyer Do?

A: A South Carolina truck accident lawyer represents and advocates for their clients while seeking just compensation on their behalf. They can investigate the claim to identify the liable parties and gather evidence against them. During settlement negotiations, a lawyer seeks to negotiate the strongest deal that they can for their clients. If, though, the claim goes to court, they can present their client’s claim and make the case for compensation.

A Truck Accident Lawyer You Can Trust

At Axelrod & Associates, P.A., our legal team understands the complexities and challenges involved with truck accidents. Our experience can help us identify the liable parties and help you seek compensation for your medical bills, psychological costs, lost wages, and other costs. Whether through negotiating a fair settlement or making your strongest case in court, our team is dedicated to doing everything in our power to get the restitution that you deserve.

If you’ve been in a truck accident and want to discuss how we may be able to help, contact us today.