A recent crash in Sacramento County emphasizes the dangers that can occur when impaired driving is suspected. According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), a pickup truck driver was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence after a collision with a big rig on Walerga Road near Elverta Road in the early morning. The crash caused the tractor-trailer to jackknife, blocking northbound traffic for several hours while emergency crews responded.
Incidents involving commercial trucks often result in significant property damage, roadway closures, and serious injuries because of the tremendous size and weight of those vehicles. In addition, when alcohol is suspected, investigators will often examine the circumstances surrounding the crash before determining how to proceed.
Why DUI Truck-Related Accidents Can Be Especially Dangerous
Even when the commercial truck driver is not believed to be at fault, the impact from another vehicle can cause the trailer to jackknife. A jackknife occurs when the trailer swings outward and forms an angle with the tractor, sometimes blocking multiple lanes of traffic. These crashes can involve other collisions with motorists who are unable to avoid the obstruction.
In addition, commercial trucks require longer stopping distances and have different handling characteristics than passenger vehicles. As a result, unexpected impacts from smaller vehicles may create dangerous situations for everyone on the roadway.
How DUI Allegations Affect a Personal Injury Claim
Driving under the influence may result in criminal charges, but it can also play an important role in a civil personal injury claim. California law usually requires drivers to operate their vehicles with reasonable care. If evidence shows that damage contributed to a collision, that information may become important in determining fault during a civil case.
Evidence considered during an investigation may include:
- Police reports
- Witness statements
- Vehicle damage
- Crash scene measurements
- Surveillance or dash camera footage
- Event data recorder information
- Commercial vehicle inspection records
Common Injuries in Big Rig Collisions
Truck crashes often involve higher impact forces than collisions between passenger vehicles.
Depending on the circumstances, individuals may suffer:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Neck and spinal injuries
- Broken bones
- Internal organ injuries
- Crush injuries
- Soft tissue injuries
- Lacerations
Prompt medical evaluation can help identify conditions that require treatment while also documenting injuries that may later become relevant in an insurance claim.
Investigating a Commercial Truck Accident
Truck accident investigations often involve more evidence than standard automobile collisions. Investigators may review the following.
- Driver logbooks
- Electronic logging device (ELD) data
- Vehicle maintenance records
- Inspection reports
- Black box data
- GPS information
- Cell phone records
- Hours-of-service documentation
- Cargo loading records
- Driver qualification files
Who May Be Liable?
Depending on the facts, potentially responsible parties could include:
- A passenger vehicle driver
- A commercial truck driver
- A trucking company
- A vehicle maintenance provider
- A cargo loading company
- A manufacturer of defective vehicle components
- Government entities responsible for roadway maintenance in limited circumstances
Every accident presents unique facts, and determining responsibility often requires a careful review of available evidence.
Insurance Issues After a Truck Accident
Commercial trucking accidents often involve larger insurance policies than ordinary automobile collisions. However, that does not necessarily make the claims process easier. Insurance companies may investigate:
- The sequence of events
- The severity of injuries
- Vehicle damage
- Medical records
- Witness credibility
- Applicable insurance coverage
In some situations, multiple insurance carriers may become involved if several vehicles or businesses are connected to the collision. Understanding how these policies connect can become an important part of resolving a claim.
Legal Guidance
Individuals injured in a collision involving a commercial truck may benefit from understanding their legal rights early in the process. Preserving evidence can be especially important because commercial trucking records, electronic data, and surveillance footage may not remain available for long periods of time following the accident.
After a truck accident, it may be helpful to:
- Seek appropriate medical evaluation
- Report the collision to law enforcement
- Preserve photographs and other available evidence
- Maintain records of medical treatment and expenses
- Consult an attorney regarding potential legal options and applicable deadlines
How KAASS LAW Can Help
Truck accident cases often involve detailed investigations, multiple parties, and extensive documentation. At KAASS LAW, we assist individuals who have been involved in commercial truck and motor vehicle accidents by reviewing the available facts, evaluating the evidence, and explaining potential legal options under California law.
Our attorneys may assist with:
- Investigating the circumstances surrounding a collision
- Reviewing police reports and available evidence
- Identifying potentially responsible parties
- Communicating with insurance companies
- Evaluating available medical documentation
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, KAASS LAW is available to discuss your situation and help you better understand your legal rights and available options.