When you drive on the highway, you may sometimes notice large tanker trucks carrying fuel and other cargo. These vehicles play an essential role in transporting important materials from one destination to another. Unfortunately, accidents with tanker trucks occur as well. Due to the size of these massive vehicles and the hazardous materials they often carry, tanker truck accidents can be very serious. If you were involved in a tanker truck accident, you could experience property or vehicle damage, serious injuries, and even death.
In some cases, victims of tanker truck accidents can recover financial compensation for their losses. At Pintas & Mullins Law Firm, a Skokie tanker truck accident lawyer may handle your case. Call (800) 794-0444 for a free consultation. We take our cases on a contingency-fee basis, meaning you never pay any fees up front or out of pocket. We only take our service fees when we secure a settlement in your favor. This allows us to advocate for accident victims, and we do not shy away from tough cases.
Tanker trucks classify as large trucks that require skilled drivers with special certification. Do not let the actions of a negligent truck driver keep you in financial distress. You may have a right to compensation from an at-fault party.
Dangers of Large Vehicles on the Road
Large vehicles like tanker trucks are important for everyone. Essential goods like gas travel from their source in tanker trucks, tractor-trailers, and other large vehicles. Due to the volume of tanker trucks and other large vehicles on the road, as well as the danger of the size of these vehicles, the federal government has strict regulations that ensure drivers operate them correctly. Additionally, weight limitations and other rules apply for large vehicle drivers. States often implement additional measures for travel within their jurisdiction. Even with all of the laws and safety regulations in place, accidents still happen.
Tanker trucks rolling over on the road presents a threat to the safety of those involved. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) found that most cargo tank truck rollover incidents resulted from driver error.
Additionally, The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration published findings in 2017 that included alarming statistics on crashes involving large trucks, defined as a total weight of over 26,000 lbs. Over 4,500 died, and of fatalities involving large trucks, over 70% were victims in other vehicles.
This represents a small sample of data that reaffirms the dangers of large trucks and related crashes. Whether you are operating a tanker truck or driving a personal vehicle, safety should be your priority. The safety of yourself, your loved ones, and other drivers depends on it.
Accident Prevention
Some tips for safe driving and vehicle operation that may help reduce your risk of accident, injury, or death, include:
- Only drive when you are well-rested. Commercial motor vehicle driver fatigue is dangerous.
- Inspect your vehicle to minimize the risk of mechanical malfunction.
- Maintain your personal or commercial licenses properly, with necessary re-testing per state and federal guidelines.
- Follow speed limit signs and obey other traffic laws.
- Do not change lanes on the highway unless necessary.
- Avoid sudden movements or jerking of the steering wheel.
- Do not drive while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- Avoid driving in hazardous conditions such as rain, snow, sleet, or low visibility.
Even if you are a safe driver, you are still at risk. Sometimes accidents are caused by third parties. If you or someone you love was in an accident involving a tanker truck, you may be considering legal action. At Pintas & Mullins Law Firm, a Skokie tanker truck accident lawyer can help answer your questions about the complex legal system. Call (800) 794-0444 today to speak about your case.
For a free legal consultation with a Tanker Truck Accidents Lawyer serving Skokie, call (800) 794-0444
What to Do If You Are in a Tanker Truck Accident
The first thing you need to do if you are involved in an accident is to protect your safety. Make sure you seek medical treatment, as this may help you later in developing evidence for a claim or a lawsuit. Additionally, obtaining a police report may also help to document cause and liability for the accident. Your lawyer may help you document evidence and determine liability for the accident as well.
If you were the victim of a tanker truck accident, your life may completely change. You might be suffering injuries that require ongoing treatment or therapy. You may have lost your vehicle and ability to get to work. You could be drowning in a pool of debt caused by your accident. Depending on your situation, you may be able to file a claim against those responsible for your accident.
Skokie Tanker Truck Accidents Lawyer Near Me (800) 794-0444
How You Can Get Help from a Skokie Tanker Truck Accident Lawyer
In some cases, victims can file legal claims to recover financial compensation in the aftermath of a tanker truck accident caused by a third party. Call (800) 794-0444 today to speak with Pintas & Mullins Law Firm to learn more about the next steps you can take towards justice.
Call or text (800) 794-0444 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form