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Common Types of Truck Accidents and How a Lawyer Can Help You Recover

July 12, 2024

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Truck accidents are often catastrophic, resulting in severe injuries or even fatalities due to the sheer size and weight of commercial trucks. Understanding the common types of truck accidents can help potential clients recognize the complexities involved and the importance of seeking legal assistance from a personal injury lawyer. Here are some of the most common types of truck accidents:


1. Rear-End Collisions

Rear-end collisions occur when a truck crashes into the vehicle in front of it. These accidents can be particularly devastating because of the force exerted by a heavy truck. Factors contributing to rear-end collisions include speeding, distracted driving, tailgating, and brake failure. Due to the significant difference in size and weight, the occupants of the smaller vehicle often suffer severe injuries.

man in truck

2. Jackknife Accidents

A jackknife accident happens when the trailer of a truck swings out to form a 90-degree angle with the cab, resembling a folding pocket knife. This can occur when a driver brakes suddenly or loses control on slippery roads. Jackknife accidents can block multiple lanes of traffic, leading to pile-ups and severe injuries. These incidents are often caused by improper braking, poor road conditions, and driver error.


3. Rollovers

Rollover accidents are among the most dangerous types of truck accidents. They occur when a truck tips over onto its side or roof. Rollovers can happen due to high speeds, sharp turns, shifting cargo, or uneven road surfaces. The high center of gravity in trucks makes them more susceptible to rollovers. These accidents often result in significant injuries to the truck driver and any nearby motorists.

trucks on a highway

4. Underride Accidents

Underride accidents occur when a smaller vehicle slides underneath the rear or side of a truck. These collisions are particularly deadly because the top of the smaller vehicle can be sheared off, leading to severe injuries or fatalities for the occupants. Underride accidents can be caused by sudden stops, poor visibility, and lack of proper underride guards on the truck.


5. Blind Spot Accidents

Trucks have large blind spots, also known as "no-zones," where smaller vehicles can disappear from the truck driver's view. These blind spots are located directly in front, behind, and along the sides of the truck. Blind spot accidents occur when a truck driver changes lanes or makes a turn without noticing a vehicle in one of these no-zones. Drivers of smaller vehicles must be aware of these blind spots and avoid lingering in them.

A man is riding a bike on a city street in front of trucks and a car

6. T-Bone Collisions

T-bone collisions, or side-impact accidents, occur when the front of one vehicle crashes into the side of another, forming a "T" shape. These accidents often happen at intersections when a truck driver runs a red light or stop sign, or when a smaller vehicle fails to yield the right of way. T-bone collisions can cause severe injuries to the occupants on the side of the vehicle that is struck.


7. Head-On Collisions

Head-on collisions are less common but incredibly deadly. They occur when the front end of a truck collides with the front end of another vehicle. These accidents often result from driver fatigue, impaired driving, or distracted driving. The impact force in head-on collisions is enormous, leading to catastrophic injuries or fatalities

trucks in a parking lot

8. Lost Load Accidents

Lost load accidents happen when cargo falls off a truck and onto the roadway, creating hazards for other drivers. Improperly secured loads, overloaded trucks, or shifting cargo can cause these accidents. Drivers swerving to avoid debris or colliding with fallen cargo can lead to serious injuries and multi-vehicle accidents.


Navigating the aftermath of a truck accident is complex, involving multiple parties such as trucking companies, insurance firms, and possibly government entities. After a truck accident, an experienced personal injury lawyer like those at Newman Injury Law can help investigate the accident, negotiate with insurance companies, and fight to help you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses. If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident, seeking legal assistance promptly is crucial. Don’t hesitate to reach out to Newman Injury Law, so our qualified attorneys can help ensure your rights are protected and you receive the compensation you deserve.

car accident
A truck is driving down a curvy road.
A garbage truck is parked on the side of a city street at night.
red truck
A car is driving down a highway with mountains in the background.

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