Unlike normal commercial trucks, tanker trucks are designed to safely ferry dangerous goods such as chemicals, gasoline, and LPG. Others transport non-hazardous goods from one region to another. No matter what these vehicles carry, tanker trucks require specialized handling. Because they are usually heavy, their collisions are often devastating. The risks associated with tanker trucks increase depending on the goods they carry. For example, a truck ferrying gasoline is more likely to cause severe injuries and fatalities compared to one ferrying water or milk. This is because the gasoline may ignite, causing an explosion.
If you were injured in a tanker truck accident, you may be entitled to monetary compensation with the help of a committed truck accident attorney. Whether through a personal injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit, pursuing damages in cases involving commercial trucks may leave you in a tight spot. For instance, you need time to rest and nurse your injuries, or even grieve the loss of your loved one. All this while focusing on your case. Instead, you should work with a committed Pasadena tanker truck accident lawyer.
Dangers of Tanker Truck Accidents
Any traffic crash involving a truck can be devastating. However, those that involve tanker trucks come with added risks. The toxic chemicals and flammable liquids may spill on the roads and highways, causing every motorist’s nightmare. Flammable liquids such as gasoline and LPG may ignite and cause extensive damage including explosions and burns. Other liquids such as Ethanol which are being substituted for conventional fuels are equally flammable. On top of that, they irritate the skin and may result in internal organ damage if ingested.
Other chemicals such as pesticides, chlorine, and equally dangerous inputs may be released into the environment when an accident occurs. Even if nobody is struck in the crash, they may still suffer catastrophic health issues in case they inhale toxic fumes. Due to the dangers posed by tanker trucks in the United States, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), sets the rules and regulations governing the operation of tanker trucks. This is in a bid to ensure the safety of motorists and the general public. Unfortunately, these laws are continually flouted, resulting in fatal crashes. Having a knowledgeable Pasadena tanker truck accident attorney is a great move to ensure no stone is left unturned when establishing where any laws were broken in your accident.
For a free legal consultation with a tanker truck accident lawyer serving Pasadena, call (832) 449-8230
Liability in a Pasadena Tanker Truck Accident Case
Multiple parties are involved in the trucking industry. There are drivers who operate the trucks, and loading crew who ensure the cargo on transit is secured. On top of that, there are also trucking companies that oversee the whole trucking process from hiring drivers, route planning, and maintaining these vehicles. Each party has a role to play in ensuring that an accident doesn’t occur. When the negligence of any of these parties results in an accident, a skilled Pasadena tanker truck accident attorney may help you pursue compensation from them.
Truck Driver
Truck drivers are responsible for the safe operation of their vehicles. They must ensure the safety of other road users by following set trucking rules and regulations. But many times, they subject other motorists and the general public to dangers that come with negligence. Drunk driving, distracted driving, speeding, and unsafe lane changes are common grounds on which drivers may carry liability for tanker truck accidents.
Trucking Companies
Trucking companies may also be at fault for collisions that occur due to negligent driver hiring or improper maintenance of their trucks. Companies with unfavorable working conditions that don’t allow for ample rest between trips may be sued for accidents that occur due to driver fatigue.
Truck/Tanker Manufacturer
In some cases, everyone is responsible, but still, these accidents occur. In such scenarios, it is highly probable that faulty systems or parts contributed to the crash. For example, if the braking and steering systems malfunctioned, leading to a crash, the manufacturer may bear liability subject to investigations by expert witnesses
Pasadena Tanker Truck Accident Lawyer Near Me (832) 449-8230
Contact a Pasadena Tanker Truck Accident Attorney for Help Pursuing Compensation
Identifying the party to sue for your injuries and losses is just one step in many that make up a successful truck accident case. There is so much work to do, documents to collate, evidence to gather, and arguments to make. Yet, you still need to focus on treatment. Our Pasadena tanker truck accident lawyers are here to carry the burden that truck accident cases are. Contact us today to learn more about your legal options.
Call or text (832) 449-8230 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form