Commercial trucks are a vital part of our economy, but their sheer size and weight also make them a major threat on the road. When a large truck is involved in an accident, the consequences for other drivers are often catastrophic. At Pasquale V. Bochiechio, P.C., we believe it’s crucial for the public to understand the true dangers involved, which is why we’ve compiled a look at some recent national statistics.
Recent data paints a sobering picture of the frequency and severity of these incidents:
- A Growing Problem: The number of large truck accidents is on the rise. In 2021, there were over 523,000 large truck accidents in the U.S., a staggering 26% increase from the previous year.
- Disproportionate Harm: While large trucks are only involved in a small percentage of overall traffic incidents, the outcomes are tragically unequal. In 2021, 72% of all fatalities in large truck accidents were occupants of other vehicles—not the truck driver.
- Injuries are Common: Beyond fatalities, a significant number of accidents result in serious injury. In 2020, there were approximately 101,000 injury-causing accidents involving large trucks.
- The Most Dangerous Type: Semi-trailer trucks were involved in the majority of fatal truck accidents, accounting for 53% of all deadly collisions involving large trucks.
Why Statistics Matter for Your Case
These numbers aren’t just figures on a page; they represent real people and life-altering events. For victims of a truck accident, the legal process is often more complicated than a typical car accident claim. Trucking companies and their insurers are well-equipped to defend against these claims, which is why you need an experienced legal team on your side.
Knowing the statistics helps us build a powerful case by:
- Establishing the general dangers and high potential for injury in these types of collisions.
- Highlighting common risk factors, such as intersections, where a high percentage of fatal accidents occur.
- Emphasizing the responsibility of the trucking company and driver to operate their vehicle with extreme caution.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident with a commercial truck, you are not alone. The experienced team at Pasquale V. Bochiechio, P.C. is here to help you navigate the legal complexities and fight for the compensation you deserve.
