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Semi-Truck Overturns on Southern California Freeway

Semi-truck Overturns on Southern California Freeway

A large semi-truck caught fire and overturned in the northbound lanes of Interstate 605 in Los Angeles County recently, causing significant backups for several hours on the well-traveled freeway.

According to media reports, law enforcement officers placed the truck driver under arrest for suspicion of driving under the influence (DUI), signifying that impairment was a likely factor in the crash. The truck had reportedly just merged onto I-605 from the 60 Freeway when it swerved to the side, tipped over onto its left side and skidded across several lanes of traffic. Fortunately, no one suffered serious injuries in the Los Angeles truck accident.

Why do large trucks overturn?

Although drug or alcohol use may have been a factor in this recent case, there are numerous other reasons why large commercial vehicles may tip over, leading to serious accidents. The following are the most common issues our Los Angeles personal injury attorney sees on a regular basis:

  • Traveling at excessive speeds: Truck drivers are often under pressure to meet tight shipping deadlines, and they may speed to get to their destinations more quickly. Taking a curve too fast, for example, may lead to the driver losing control of the rig, with the vehicle’s weight and momentum causing it to tip over.
  • Improper or unbalanced loading: The crews responsible for loading large semi-truck trailers must avoid putting too much weight on one side over the other. An imbalanced load is unstable and makes it more difficult for the drive to maintain control and avoid a crash. Shippers must adhere to strict state and federal regulations in regards to trailer loading.
  • Poor road or weather conditions: Poorly maintained roads and a lack of visibility due to inclement weather may also make it difficult for truck drivers to control their rigs. If possible, drivers must account for changing conditions and take precautions to avoid an accident.
  • Defective equipment: Semi-trucks are enormous pieces of equipment with numerous moving parts. If one of those parts fails due to a manufacturing defect or deferred maintenance, a truck accident lawyer in Los Angeles may be able to take action against the maker of the part or the company in charge of upkeep on the vehicle.

The dangers of truck accidents

The average semi-truck is much larger and heavier than a typical automobile, and thus has the potential to cause an enormous amount of damage when a truck accident occurs. These crashes often result in serious injuries and substantial property damage, and victims may need to seek compensation from truck drivers, trucking companies, parts manufacturers and any other parties that may have been fully or partially at fault.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a Los Angeles truck accident, be sure to consult an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible. You may be able to secure monetary compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering and other damages.

Schedule Your Free Consultation with a Top Los Angeles Truck Lawyer

Christopher Montes de Oca is an experienced truck lawyer in Los Angeles. Chris is recognized as a “Super Lawyer Rising Star,” a designation only 2.5 percent of lawyers receive, because of the exceptional results get obtains and his dedication to his clients. He serves clients throughout Los Angeles, including Echo Park, Maywood and Alhambra. Call him today for a free consultation at (562) 901-4664.

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