The Dangers of Rear-End Crashes with Trucks
Rear-end crashes with trucks are far more dangerous than those with cars, given the weight of the truck. Regardless of whether the truck has rear-ended you or vice versa, you will suffer serious injuries. These accidents have a far higher fatality rate than crashes with cars.
Many people do not realize the danger of crashing into the back of a truck. In the past, rear-end crashes with trucks could result in the top being sheared off the car. There are still numerous reports of accidents in which drivers were decapitated in rear-end truck crashes because their car ended up under the truck.
Trucks Greatly Outweigh Cars
The problem is that the bumper on the truck is far higher than the car, resulting in an impact closer to the driver’s head and neck. Fully loaded trucks weigh up to 80,000 pounds, while a car, on average, will weigh 3,000 pounds. The disparity in size means that there will be a far greater impact to the car driver. While whiplash is the greatest risk from car rear-end crashes, the actual impact itself is the primary risk of a truck rear-end crash. Rear-end truck crashes occur at a higher speed because the driver is unable to slow down to avoid the accident.
The most common physical damage from rear-end truck crashes is traumatic brain injuries and neck and back injuries. Oftentimes, these accidents will result in a spinal cord injury, which can lead to partial or complete paralysis.
Contact a California Truck Accident Lawyer
Rear-end truck crashes could lead to significant financial compensation if you can show that the truck driver was at fault. Call the Law Offices of Brian Brandt today at 800.983.4467 or contact us online to set up your no-risk, no-cost case evaluation.