When a large commercial vehicle collides with a motorcycle, the results are usually devastating. As a motorcyclist, a biker is already nearly 40% more likely to suffer death in an accident of any kind. When it comes to multi-vehicle collisions, truckers only account for 6.5% of deaths. Although a motorcycle vs semi-truck accident can be caused by either motorist, its clear to see whos more likely to walk away if an accident does happen.
If you or somebody you care about has been injured in a crash involving a large truck and a motorcycle, you may be entitled to compensation for the damages you have suffered in either a personal injury or wrongful death case. The attorneys at Greg Coleman Law have the experience you need to defend your rights and pursue justice on your behalf.
Find out how we can help you. Fill out the Free Case Review form to your right to discover your legal options.
Injuries in Motorcycle vs. Semi-Truck Crashes
The utter size, weight and shape of a large commercial vehicle contribute to the immense amount of damage sustained in a semi-truck vs. motorcycle crash. A large truck usually weighs 10,000 pounds or more, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). A motorcycle usually doesnt exceed 800 pounds.
Some common injuries in motorcycle & truck accidents include:
- Whiplash
- Road rash
- Broken bones
- Concussion
- Lacerations
- Internal trauma
- Spinal cord trauma
- Paralysis
- Brain damage
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Death
Trucks are not only immense in size, they are prone to have blind spots, which is one of the common causes of such traumatic collisions.
Causes of Motorcycle & Truck Accidents
Motorcycles and semi-trucks are both vehicles that the driver of a passenger car has to be especially aware of, each posing their own dangers in relation to other vehicles on the road. Considering such circumstances, its even more important for bikers and truckers to be aware, respectful and cautious when sharing the road.
Unfortunately, accidents cant always be avoided. Some common causes of truck vs motorcycle accidents include:
- Blind spots
- Driving under the influence
- Failure to follow traffic laws
- Failure to yield
- Improper following distance
- Inexperience
- Poor road conditions
- Poor weather
- Speeding
While accidents involving large commercial trucks and motorcycles do not occur frequently, when they do, injuries are severe and the risk for catastrophic or fatal damage is much higher. If your family has been affected by a tragic accident, you may be eligible for legal recourse. An experienced attorney can help explain your legal options.
Motorcycle vs. Truck Liability
Who is liable in a motorcycle vs. semi-truck wreck will depend upon the circumstances surrounding the incident. When a commercial truck is at fault, any number of parties may be responsible, as the cargo, trucking company or driver could have contributed to the cause of the accident. On the other hand, the biker or the bike manufacturer could also be at fault.
Considering the number of factors that can contribute to this type of collision, it is important to consult with a lawyer experienced in litigating truck vs motorcycle claims. In order to obtain a just verdict or settlement, a victim must prove that they are not at fault in the collision; proper representation can assist in establishing what party was to blame by recreating the circumstances surrounding the incident and pinpointing the cause of the crash.
Contact Our Knoxville Auto Accident Law Firm
Over 3,300 motorcycle accidents occurred on Tennessee roads in 2012, killing nearly 140, according to the Tennessee Department of Safety & Homeland Security. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), nearly 130 perish in large truck crashes each year in Tennessee. If tragedy has struck your family in the aftermath of a devastating motorcycle vs. semi-truck crash, Greg Coleman Law is here to help.
Our knowledgeable attorneys are passionate about pursuing justice on behalf of Tennessee accident victims. We give compassion to each of our clients, and dedicate our resources to every case in order to obtain the compensation each deserves. We are proud to serve the citizens of Tennessee through our main office located in Knoxville, and accept clients from the following areas:
- Knoxville
- Powell
- Farragut
- Seymour
- Strawberry Plains
- Maryville
- Corryton
- and communities throughout the area
At Greg Coleman Law, we believe in justice for you. Call (865) 247-0080 to discuss your legal rights today.
Begin your 100% confidential FREE CASE REVIEW now simply fill out the form at the top of this page to get started.