Accidents with large commercial trucks are understandably terrifying. Injuries involving these 18-wheeler trucks can be devastating in many cases, and it’s not unusual to see multi-car collisions when a large truck is involved.

Even the best defensive drivers can’t predict or prevent all collisions. If you or someone you love is the victim of a commercial truck driver’s negligence, you need to speak with an Arkansas truck accident lawyer as soon as possible.

If you’re searching online for Arkansas trucking injury lawyers, contact Cottrell Law Office. Attorney Wesley A. Cottrell has over three decades of experience assisting injured victims like you, and he understands the complexities of these types of claims.

You need a legal advocate on your side to protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.

We’ll take care of everything else.

Submit the short form below to schedule a consultation.

Large Truck Accident Fatality Rate Statistics

Tens of thousands of people are killed every year across the country in large truck collisions.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that 39,000 people lost their lives in large truck fatalities in 2018. 921,000 more died in light truck accidents. Arkansas had 516 total fatalities in 2018, a 2% decrease from the year before.

The state’s fatality rate averages out at 17.12 per 100,000 people, but that number jumps to 24.05 per 100,000 people when you only look at licensed drivers.

Of the 516 fatalities in the NHTSA report, 26 of these were occupants in large trucks. 184 were occupants of a light truck, while 166 were in passenger vehicles. Alcohol was involved in some overall fatalities, with 26% of drivers having a BAC higher than 0.08. If the other driver was drinking and driving, it’s crucial you contact an experienced Arkansas commercial truck accident lawyer.

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Common Causes of Arkansas Large Truck Accidents

Numerous factors can lead to large truck collisions, but some causes are more common than others. Drivers have a legal duty to protect other drivers and people around them when behind the wheel, especially when driving a big rig truck. When drivers breach this duty, they could be negligent. One simple mistake can destroy many other people’s lives. 

Here are some of the most common causes of large truck accidents that cause people to retain a semi truck accident attorney in Arkansas:

  • Distracted driving: Distracted driving isn’t limited to younger drivers texting, as you might assume. Drivers who take their eyes off the road to change the radio, check GPS, look at a log sheet, eat, etc., are all guilty of distracted driving.
  • Driver fatigue: Truck drivers are on the road for long periods. They must take breaks and not drive over a certain number of hours or days, but not all drivers adhere to the legal requirements.
  • Driver error: Inexperienced drivers who lack the proper training are more likely to make mistakes that lead to an accident.
  • Cargo and weight issues: If too much cargo is loaded on a truck or the weight is not distributed correctly, it can throw the trailer off balance, causing the driver to lose control.  
  • Mechanical errors: Truck companies and drivers are required to conduct regular safety inspections. Failure to do so can lead to brake failures, tire blowouts, and more. Some mechanical errors result from defective products, which could lead to a claim against the manufacturer.

Other contributing factors include adverse weather and road hazards such as potholes, road debris, roadwork, high winds, fog, snow, or ice.

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Types of Injuries in an Arkansas Truck Accident

Commercial trucks weigh considerably more than passenger vehicles. Injuries tend to be much more severe.

Some of the most common injuries in a large truck accident include:

Many victims find themselves facing hundreds of thousands of dollars in medical expenses, months or longer off work, and chronic pain. Some victims have permanent damage and may be forced to apply for disability benefits.

How an Arkansas Truck Accident Lawyer Can Help

Retaining a lawyer to represent you for your injuries in a truck accident is crucial. You need someone who can focus on your case’s legal aspects while you concentrate on your recovery and getting back to work. Our number one priority is to fight for the compensation you deserve.

We will gather all relevant evidence and documentation to help support your claim for damages. If you haven’t requested your Arkansas police report yet, we can help with that as well. Once you hire an attorney, the other driver’s insurance company is obligated to speak with us. Our office will handle all negotiations and communications, which can keep you from inadvertently saying something that could jeopardize your case. Insurance companies know accident victims don’t have experience with negotiations.

If your case doesn’t resolve promptly, we will also file a lawsuit within the Arkansas statute of limitations period. In most cases, you have three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. Failure to file a lawsuit within the allotted time frame means the court could dismiss your case entirely.

Contact a Top Tractor Trailer Accident Attorney in Rogers, AR

If you need assistance pursuing a claim for damages following a large truck accident, let the Cottrell Law Office assist. We have over 30 years of personal injury experience. Attorney Wesley Cottrell prides himself on providing you with the high-quality legal representation and personal attention your case deserves.

Contact us online or call our office at 800-364-8305 today to schedule a free consultation, and let us show you how we can help.