Tractor-trailer accidents can be devastating, often leading to severe injuries due to the size and weight of these vehicles. Understanding the common causes of these accidents can help you stay vigilant on the road, but it’s also important to know what to do if you find yourself in this situation.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a tractor-trailer accident in North Carolina, it’s essential to act quickly. Contact an experienced attorney who routinely helps in truck accidents as soon as possible to protect your rights. At Green Mistretta Law, we are committed to helping victims navigate the complex legal process and pursue the compensation they deserve. Our team is here to guide you every step of the way, starting with a free consultation to review your case.

Common Causes of Tractor-Trailer Accidents

1. Driver Fatigue. Truck drivers often face long hours on the road, leading to exhaustion. Despite federal regulations limiting the number of hours they can drive, some push past the legal limits, increasing the risk of accidents.
2. Distracted Driving. Like any other driver, truckers can become distracted by phones, navigation systems, or eating while driving. A momentary lapse in attention can have catastrophic consequences when operating such a large vehicle.
3. Speeding and Aggressive Driving. Due to tight delivery schedules, some drivers exceed speed limits or engage in aggressive driving behaviors, such as tailgating or unsafe lane changes. Speeding with a heavy load makes it harder to stop and increases the severity of accidents.
4. Improper Maintenance. Tractor-trailers require regular maintenance to stay safe on the road. Failure to properly maintain brakes, tires, or other critical components can lead to equipment failure and accidents.
5. Overloaded or Improperly Loaded Cargo. If a truck is overloaded or the cargo is not properly secured, it can shift during transit, causing the driver to lose control or making it difficult to maneuver the vehicle safely.
6. Weather Conditions. Rain, fog, ice, and snow create hazardous conditions for all drivers, but tractor-trailers are especially prone to jackknifing or skidding in poor weather. Drivers who fail to adjust their speed for these conditions increase the risk of a collision.

What to Do If You’re Involved in a Tractor-Trailer Accident

1. Ensure Your Safety First. Move to a safe area if possible. If you can, get yourself and your passengers out of harm’s way. Turn on hazard lights and call 911 to report the accident.
2. Seek Medical Attention. Even if you don’t feel injured, it’s important to get checked by a healthcare professional. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal trauma, may not be immediately apparent.
3. Document the Scene. Take photos or videos of the accident scene, including any damage to vehicles, road conditions, and any injuries. Get the truck driver’s information, including their license number, the company they work for, and their insurance details.
4. Gather Witness Information. If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information. Their testimony may be crucial if you pursue legal action.
5. Contact a Truck Accident Attorney. Trucking companies and their insurers are often aggressive in protecting their interests. Having an experienced attorney on your side can help you navigate the complexities of tractor-trailer accident claims, ensuring you get the compensation you deserve.

Why You Should Choose Green Mistretta Law

At Green Mistretta Law, we help victims of tractor-trailer accidents get the justice and compensation they deserve. We understand the nuances of trucking regulations and have the experience to fight for you against large trucking companies and their insurers.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a tractor-trailer accident, contact us today for a free consultation. We’ll review your case and help you understand your legal options so you can focus on recovery. Call us now to schedule your consultation.