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Accidents involving tanker trucks are often severe in nature. These massive vehicles often carry dangerous cargo. When they crash, the risks are much higher than in a typical car accident. Fires, explosions, toxic spills, and serious injuries are just a few of the possible outcomes.
Why Tanker Truck Accidents Are So Dangerous
A collision with a tanker truck is different from other accidents. These trucks are large, heavy, and often carry substances that can turn a bad crash into a disaster. Here are just a few of the reasons they are so dangerous.
Hazardous Materials Can Spill
Many tanker trucks transport chemicals, fuel, or toxic liquids. If a crash causes a leak, these substances can create serious health and environmental risks. Exposure to hazardous materials can cause burns, breathing problems, and long-term health issues.
Fuel and Chemicals May Lead to Fires and Explosions
Flammable liquids, like gasoline or propane, can ignite on impact. A small spark from the crash can cause a massive fire or explosion, putting everyone nearby in danger. Even if you weren’t directly hit by the truck, you could suffer burns or smoke inhalation from the fire.
Tanker Trucks Are Hard to Control
These trucks are heavy and take longer to stop than smaller vehicles. If a driver brakes suddenly, the liquid inside the tank can shift, causing the truck to tip over or jackknife. This can block roads, hit other vehicles, and lead to even more damage.
Who Is Responsible for a Tanker Truck Accident?
Determining who is at fault in a tanker truck accident isn’t always simple. Several parties may be responsible, including:
- The Truck Driver – If the truck driver was engaging in negligent activities, they may be responsible for the crash. This includes instances where drivers are speeding, under the influence, or distracted.
- The Trucking Company – If the trucking company did not adequately train the driver, did not follow safety rules, or forced the driver to work long hours, they could be held accountable.
- The Cargo Loading Team – If the tanker was not filled correctly or was carrying too much weight, the team that loaded it may share responsibility.
- The Manufacturer – If a defective part, like bad brakes or a faulty tank, caused the crash, the company that made the truck or its parts could be held liable.
Legal Challenges in Tanker Truck Accidents
Filing a legal claim after a tanker truck accident can be complicated. Trucking companies and their insurers will try to avoid paying victims what they deserve. They might argue that the accident wasn’t their fault or try to offer a low settlement.
An experienced truck accident attorney can help you assert your rights and seek fair compensation by:
- Gathering evidence from accident reports, traffic cameras, and witness statements
- Working with industry professionals to prove what caused the crash
- Holding all responsible parties accountable
- Pushing back against unfair settlement offers
- Taking your case to trial as necessary
If you were hurt due to a tanker truck accident, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages if you had to miss work
- Pain and suffering caused by the accident
- Property damage to your car or other belongings
- Future medical costs if you need ongoing treatment
Call Chatham Gilder Howell Pittman Today
Tanker truck accidents can cause serious injuries and financial burdens. You don’t have to go through this alone. At Chatham Gilder Howell Pittman, we stand up for accident victims in Southaven and Hernando, MS, and help them get the compensation they need to rebuild their lives.
If you’ve been injured in a tanker truck accident, contact us today for a free consultation. We’ll listen to your story, explain your options, and fight for the justice you deserve.
