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Truck Accidents Caused by Unsafe Lane ChangesÂ
Because of their enormous size and the heavy cargo they carry, commercial trucks can cause disastrous accidents on our Irvine roads and highways. That is why it is essential that truck drivers obey the rules of safe driving at all times.
Regulations developed by the U.S. Department of Transportation require that professional truck drivers go through comprehensive training before they can get a commercial driverâs license.  Unfortunately, these professional drivers sometimes ignore safety rules, with tragic consequences. This is particularly true with respect to unsafe lane changes.
If you have been injured as a result of a truck driver’s unsafe lane change, contact an Irvine truck accident lawyer today for information on obtaining financial compensation.
Deadly Carelessness
Some of the specific violations related to unsafe lane changes are:
- Failure to signal before changing lanes
- Failure to yield the right of way to cars
- Cutting other vehicles off
- Swerving between two lanes
- Not checking blind spots in rear view or side view mirrors
- Misjudging the distance of other vehicles
- Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Driving while fatigued due to working more hours than are allowed by law
Unsafe lane changes by any kind of vehicle are very dangerous. With massive trucks, indiscriminate lane changing can spell disaster. When it can be shown that truck drivers broke traffic laws, failed to be aware of their surroundings, or drove negligently in any way, they can be held liable for compensating victims.
Truck accidents from unsafe lane changes can cause devastating injuries:
- Broken arms and legs
- Severe burns
- Traumatic brain injury
- Multiple lacerations
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
Recovering Damages
Victims of these kinds of accidents should not be responsible for any of the expenses incurred. It is important to get the compensation you deserve and not to settle for anything less. Damages that can be recovered by the victims of truck accidents include:
- Ambulance fees
- Medical bills
- Medicine
- Rehabilitation
- Lost income
- Car repair
- Car rental fees
- Transportation costs to and from medical care
How Do Attorneys Recover Damages?
Our investigators go to work immediately to find out whether the truck that hit your vehicle was in compliance with federal rules, plus any applicable state rules as well. Evidence that it was not in compliance will go a long way toward helping you win your case or negotiate a substantial settlement.
Trying to win compensation from a trucking company or its insurer for trucking accidents caused by unsafe lane changes can be tougher than seeking damages after an accident with another motorist. Trucking companies have a lot of experience dealing with accident claims and will launch a full-court press to try to show that their driver was not at fault. Thatâs why you need skilled, experienced advocates on your side as well.
Holding Trucking Companies Accountable
Long-established legal rules make clear â and this principle is affirmed by the federal trucking regulations â that the employers of truck drivers have a duty to ensure that their drivers are well-trained in all aspects of their job, including the importance of making safe lane changes.
When drivers flout these crucial safety rules, their employers can and should be held liable.
What is the Value of Evidence in These Cases?
Gathering evidence is a critical element of a case like this. It is important to track down witnesses as soon as possible, before they disappear or their memories of the incident become less vivid. The specific documentation that trucking companies are required by law to maintain must be thoroughly reviewed.
Our Irvine personal injury attorneys will listen to the facts of your situation, tell you in simple language what your choices are, and compile the information you need to make your claim. Donât wait another day to get the advice you need.