Understanding Semi Truck Accidents: Insights from The Law Offices of Henry M. Hanflik
Nationwide Statistics on Fatal Semi Truck Accidents
Many fatal road accidents in the United States involve semi trucks. In 2020, out of 35,766 fatal motor vehicle crashes, 4,444 involved semi-trucks, leading to 4,965 deaths. These accidents are often attributed to speeding, driver distraction, failure to yield, and improper lane usage.
Michigan’s Tragic Figures in Semi-Truck Crashes
In Michigan, the statistics for 2022 are alarming: out of 1,053 fatal motor vehicle crashes, 105 involved tractor-trailers, resulting in 105 fatalities. Additionally, there were 2,759 tractor-trailers involved in 51,066 personal injury-related crashes, injuring 3,632 people.
The Heightened Risk of Semi-Truck Accidents
The fatality rate in tractor-trailer-involved crashes is notably higher than that of other motor vehicle crashes. In 2020, this rate was 22% higher nationwide and 28% higher in Michigan for 2022. These rates reflect a significant danger posed by semi-trucks on the road.
Common Causes of Semi Truck Accidents
Factors leading to these accidents include:
- Driver fatigue
- Distracted driving
- Improper maintenance
- Defective equipment
- Reckless driving
- Substance abuse
- Speeding
- Violations of trucking laws
- Driver inexperience
- Improper loading
Driver-Related Factors in Fatal Crashes
The most common driver-related factors in fatal semi-truck accidents include speeding, distraction or inattention, failure to yield, impairment, careless driving, and failure to maintain the proper lane.
Michigan’s Specific Challenges
In Michigan, the top contributing factors in 2022 included:
- Failure to stop in time
- Failure to yield
- Speeding
- Improper lane use
- Careless driving
Legal Assistance for Semi Truck Accident Victims
If you’ve been injured in a semi-truck accident, The Law Offices of Henry M. Hanflik offer expert legal assistance. With a focus on fewer cases for more personalized attention, our attorneys ensure prompt communication and efficient case handling. Our track record includes numerous high-value settlements and verdicts in Michigan’s motor vehicle accident cases.
Our dedicated legal team is also equipped to provide specialized support and guidance for those involved in motorcycle accidents in Flint.
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Disclaimer: “The content shared here is intended for informational purposes only and should not be taken as legal advice. The blog posts are not written to substitute for professional legal counsel; by accessing this information, no attorney-client relationship is formed or implied”.