The combination of harsh weather, heavy traffic, and massive vehicles can make Wisconsin’s roads a dangerous place. When large semi-trucks cross through the state carrying heavy loads, the potential for catastrophic accidents increases dramatically.
These collisions often result in severe injuries, property damage, and tragically, fatalities. Many factors can cause semi-truck accidents in Wisconsin, from driver error to corporate negligence.
In these situations, working with an experienced Milwaukee truck accident attorney can help victims understand their legal rights, investigate the cause of the crash, and pursue the compensation they need to move forward.
Driver Error, Fatigue, and Other Human Factors
Even a momentary lapse in judgment can be deadly when driving a large truck.
Unfortunately, truck drivers face relentless pressure to meet delivery deadlines, which often pushes them to make dangerous choices like speeding through construction zones, tailgating smaller vehicles, or attempting risky lane changes in heavy traffic.
Errors that can lead to truck accidents include:
- Distracted driving from cell phone use, GPS adjustments, or eating while driving
- Aggressive driving behaviors like road rage or excessive speeding
- Impaired driving due to alcohol, drugs, or prescription medications
- Inexperience in navigating tough roads or handling a large vehicle
- Poor decision-making during adverse weather conditions
- Driving while fatigued or driving more hours than allowed by federal law
Mechanical Failures and Equipment Defects
Semi-trucks endure tremendous stress as they travel tens of thousands of miles every year. As a result, regular maintenance is critical for safe operation. When mechanical systems fail, drivers can lose control of their massive vehicles with little warning and cause very severe accidents.
Unfortunately, some trucking companies prioritize profits over safety by deferring crucial repairs or skipping required inspections. Even when proper maintenance is performed, manufacturing defects can still contribute to accidents.
Improper Loading and Cargo Issues
How cargo gets loaded onto a trailer directly affects the truck’s stability and stopping ability on Wisconsin roads. Loading dock workers, cargo companies, and trucking firms all share responsibility for ensuring loads are properly distributed and secured.
Some cargo loaders rush through the loading process or fail to properly secure heavy items. As a result, cargo can shift during transport or fall from trailers onto the roadway. When cargo shifts unexpectedly, it can cause trucks to tip over or suddenly change direction.
Regulatory Violations and Compliance Failures
The trucking industry operates under extensive federal and state safety regulations designed to protect public safety. For example, hours-of-service rules limit how many consecutive hours drivers can operate their vehicles to prevent dangerous fatigue.
Additionally, companies must conduct regular drug and alcohol testing to ensure impaired drivers don’t get behind the wheel.
However, some companies prioritize profits over compliance and violate these important regulations. They may pressure drivers to falsify logbooks or exceed legal driving limits to meet unrealistic delivery schedules.
They may also hire unqualified drivers or skip mandatory safety training programs. Tired, impaired, or inexperienced drivers operating massive trucks pose serious risks to everyone sharing the highway.
Establishing Liability When a Semi-Truck Accident Happens
If you were involved in a semi-truck accident in Wisconsin, you have grounds for legal action. You have the right to pursue a lawsuit against the responsible party and recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and other damages resulting from the crash.
However, before you can file a claim, you first need to determine who was responsible.
A Wisconsin truck accident attorney can investigate your case, identify all liable parties, and build a compelling case for your maximum compensation. Contact us at Cannon & Dunphy S.C. to schedule a free consultation today and start protecting your rights.