A tanker truck is a cylinder-shaped tractor-trailer that can carry various materials, including dry goods, food liquids, hazardous chemicals, fumes, oil, and more. Tanker trucks are large, heavy vehicles that can often be difficult to maneuver through traffic. Those involved in a collision with a tanker truck, or hazards created by a tanker truck collision, can suffer severe, life-long injuries.
When tanker truck accidents occur, the consequences can be disastrous. If you’ve been injured by a tanker truck, contact William Mattar P.C. today as you may be entitled to compensation. We can help you explore your legal options and take on your accident case. Call (844) 444 - 4444 to get started.
Types of Tanker Trucks
There are many different uses for tanker trucks – from basic food goods to dangerous (and potentially flammable) liquids. Of course, the type of cargo a tank truck is carrying may affect the potential hazards in the event of an accident. Cargo that may be transported by a tanker truck includes:
- Sewage
- Gasoline/fuel
- Dairy
- Alcohol
- Flour/grains
- Food grade oils
- Sand/gravel
- Paints and dyes
- Pesticides
- Chemicals/acids
- Fumes
If you’ve been involved in a collision with a tanker truck, our attorneys can help. We work with those injured by large trucks. Contact us today at (844) 444 - 4444.
The Dangers of Tanker Trucks
Apart from their size and weight, tanker trucks can pose serious dangers to those on the road. In the event of an accident, a tanker truck whose tank has become damaged or punctured can leak cargo and, depending on the type of cargo, the effects can be devastating.
Tanker trucks that transport chemicals or other hazardous liquids can be dangerous in the event of a spill. If an accident victim comes into contact with hazardous chemicals, that person can suffer a chemical burn. In other circumstances, these liquids can be flammable and ignite upon impact, resulting in a car fire accident. Fires can endanger occupants of nearby cars.
What Causes Tanker Truck Accidents?
A variety of factors can cause a tanker truck accident – from speeding to distracted driving.
Fatigue is a potential factor in tanker truck accidents. A study by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) found that 13 percent of commercial truck drivers were determined to be fatigued at the time of their accident. According to the FMCSA, driver fatigue is often a result of “lack of adequate sleep, extended work hours, strenuous work or non-work activities, or a combination of other factors.”
As with any large truck, mechanical issues can cause a tanker truck to crash. Poor maintenance or a defective part may cause a system malfunction, such as brake failure. Worn tires can also burst under the weight of a large tanker, leading to a tire blowout. Tire blowouts are very dangerous for tanker trucks, as a loss of control can cause them to run off the road or rollover.
Tanker Truck Accident Injuries
Occupants of vehicles involved in a tanker accident can suffer severe, life-altering injuries. Depending on the circumstances, some accident victims may even require treatment or surgery that requires long-term rehabilitation. Examples of tanker truck accident injuries include:
- Head trauma (including traumatic brain injuries)
- Neck and back injuries (i.e., whiplash)
- Soft tissue injuries
- Spinal cord damage
- Severe lacerations
- Bone fractures
- Internal bleeding
- Burns
At William Mattar, P.C. we’re familiar with the common injuries sustained by truck accident victims, and we know the types of recovery and medical care they may entail afterward. Our legal team can serve as your guide through the legal process by taking care of the case specifics while you focus on recovering from your injuries.
Can I Get Compensation for a Tank Truck Accident?
If you have been injured in a tank truck accident, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, future medical care, lost income, emotional anguish, diminished quality of life, or pain and suffering. The types of compensation you can obtain will depend on the facts of your case and which party is liable for your accident. If a tanker truck accident caused the collision, the driver and/or company involved may be found at fault.
The accident attorney that takes on your case can investigate your accident and help determine what types of compensation you may be able to receive.
Contact a Truck Accident Attorney Today
If you’ve been injured in a tanker truck accident, we want to help. The truck accident attorneys at William Mattar law offices have experience obtaining compensation for truck accident victims. We can assist you with your claim and ensure you receive the best possible outcome. Complete the online form or call us at (844) 444 - 4444 to schedule a free initial consultation today.