When high winds strike, the vehicles that are impacted the most are trucks. Their large size essentially transforms them into sails that catch the wind and can result in the truck being blown over or off the road. A truck accident caused by wind may cause catastrophic injuries to the occupants of nearby passenger vehicles and some accidents may be fatal.

Truck drivers are used to spending their days on the road in different weather conditions, but they have a responsibility to be aware of upcoming weather events that may present a danger to themselves and those around them. While they cannot control the weather, they can choose not to drive through dangerous conditions. Tractor trailers that are empty present a grave risk in high wind conditions as an empty trailer makes the truck much more susceptible to a rollover.

Causes of High Wind Truck Accidents

There are many factors that contribute to a high wind truck accident. Truck drivers and trucking companies are highly regulated and must meet strict federal and state safety standards that include the following:

• Regular maintenance of equipment, such as brakes and tires, to prevent breakdowns under harsh weather conditions.
• Proper loading of trailers to ensure the load is balanced and cannot shift under high wind conditions.
• Compliance with speed limits because the size and weight of a truck requires increased stopping distances over that of a passenger vehicle. Speed must always be adjusted for the weather conditions and high winds may require the driver to pull over, however, many companies push their drivers to get to their destinations at any cost.
• Hours of service, the number of hours a driver may work before taking a rest break, is strictly regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. They must log their hours, which are kept on record by the trucking company. Drivers who do not comply with regulations are at risk for drowsy driving, leaving them less likely to recognize sudden weather changes.
• Distracted driving, whether the driver is eating or using a cellphone, is highly dangerous.

Failure to comply with safety regulations can constitute negligence on the part of the truck driver or trucking company. If you have been injured in a truck accident, you may be eligible for compensation, but be aware that liability in a truck accident can be complicated. The driver, the owner of the truck, and the trucking company will attempt to shift blame away from themselves to avoid paying damages. Working with an experienced truck accident attorney can help you obtain the compensation you deserve.

Wilmington Truck Accident Lawyers at Rhoades & Morrow, LLC Assist Victims of Truck Accidents

Holding a truck company liable for your injuries can be an uphill battle. Contact an experienced Wilmington truck accident lawyer at Rhoades & Morrow, LLC who will fight to obtain the compensation you deserve, so that you can concentrate on your recovery. Call us at 302-427-9500 to schedule a free consultation about your case or contact us online. From our offices in Wilmington, Bear, and Milford, Delaware, we assist injured victims throughout the state.