Large truck accidents are a significant cause of injuries and fatalities across the US. In fact, trucks account for about 9% of all vehicles involved in fatal crashes in the country. These numbers, of course, vary with the state.
Unfortunately, trucking accidents are quite common in Wyoming, with the state having a higher number of fatalities than the US average.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were an average of 24.7 deaths per 100,000 people in Wyoming in 2015. That is nearly two and a half times the US average of 10.9 deaths per 100,000 people.
On the brightside, the fatalities have been decreasing steadily over the years, albeit slowly.
So, Why Are Truck Accident Fatalities So High in Wyoming?
Trucking accidents tend to be more severe in terms of injuries and fatalities than other vehicle crashes. For the most part, surviving a trucking accident is actually very rare. Even then, such an accident usually leaves victims with serious injuries.
Trucking accidents are so dangerous because of:
- Truck’s Massive Size: if a truck comes and crashes into your car, the vast size and weight of the vehicle alone can end your life or leave you with permanent injuries. For perspective, a tractor-trailer can weigh an incredible 80,000 pounds.
- The Typical High-Speed They Move at: Trucks typically travel long distances, which is why most drivers speed so much.
- Blind Spots/ Limited Visibility: All vehicles on the road have blind spots. However, trucks have pretty large blind spots.
Most Trucking Accidents are a Result of Negligence
The most common causes of truck accidents are usually voidable and, consequently, classified as negligence. These include long driving hours which can cause driver exhaustion, distracted driving, and driving under the influence.
Sometimes, the fault is usually with the trucking company, for instance, inadequate driver training, poor truck maintenance, and defective truck parts.
Should I Get a Truck Accident Attorney Near Me?
If you are a truck accident victim, you have likely suffered in more ways than one due to your injuries. The good news is you can seek compensation for all you have lost, as well as the suffering you have gone through. That is by filing a truck accident lawsuit
.
So, do I need to get a truck accident attorney near me? While you can claim damages by yourself, it is not recommended. The process will be complicated, made even more difficult by the insurance company doing everything it can to shortchange you.
Getting a truck accident attorney near me to look at your case and advise is usually the best course of action to take. Plus, an attorney will give your suit the best shot.
A Truck Accident Can Happen to You Anywhere and at Any Time in Wyoming
If you live in Wyoming, the chances of you or someone you know getting involved in a trucking accident are higher than in many states. Unfortunately, injuries can be severe and, sometimes, fatal.
If you have been injured in a truck accident or lost a family member in one, you can file a lawsuit to seek compensation with the help of a good truck accident attorney near me.
