In Colorado, trucking accident lawsuits may be filed when injury or death results from negligent conduct. The sheer size of big rigs often increases the severity of collisions, and sometimes rapidly changing weather conditions and mountainous terrain amplify the risks further. Negligent conduct by truckers and/or trucking firms can result in especially dire consequences.
Common Types of Negligence in 
Trucking Accidents
When large tractor-trailers are involved, accidents often involve serious injury or even death. Colorado’s Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) highlights the common involvement of semis in fatal accidents. In 2011, the last year for which FARS statistics were available, 44 fatalities occurred in Colorado accidents involving tractor-trailers. From 2006 to 2011 inclusive, more than 40 people died every year in large truck accidents. Tractor-trailers are also a factor in hundreds of accidents with injuries every year, and many of which result from negligence. As a result, numerous trucking accident lawsuits are filed in the state every year.
Causes of trucking accidents, resulting from negligence include:
- Speeding or driving too fast for conditions
- Driving when impaired by drugs or alcohol
- Fatigued driving, or falling asleep at the wheel
- Aggressive driving, including road rage
- Distracted driving caused by cell phone use or texting
Sometimes, the vehicle itself may be the problem due to the negligent conduct of its owner or a third party, including:
- Delaying the replacement of worn tires or parts
- Putting off vehicle inspections
- Pushing drivers to violate Federal “hours of service” regulations
- Scheduling unrealistic delivery times that stress drivers
Third party negligence resulting in a semi truck accident may include:
- Defective brake parts or other parts from suppliers
- Malfunctioning computer systems
- Deficient third-party maintenance
Many kinds of negligence can cause Colorado tractor-trailer accidents. Trucking accident lawsuits may focus on the driver, driver hiring and training, truck maintenance, parts failure and other causes. When negligence is involved, compensation may be sought for a wide range of damages, including medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages and long-term rehabilitation.
Injured in a Trucking Accident? Call Us Today.
The complexity of trucking accidents means an attorney with experience can be of assistance. At Attorney Group for Colorado, we can help answer your questions. If you have a case, we can also connect you with one of our affiliated attorneys. An initial consultation is always free and without obligation. Call today.
