The Dangers of a Fuel Truck Crash
Tanker truck accidents are uncommon, but when they occur, catastrophic damages result. The explosive cargo such trucks carry is conducive to significant injury, including burns. In addition, fuel trucks can leak flammable liquids that pose a risk to surrounding communities and adjacent vehicles. Let’s take a look at the types of substances hauled by a tanker truck, the dangers inherent to this type of transportation and the injuries common in a fuel truck accident.
Jeff Morris - Personal Injury Attorney
Morris Law Accident Injury Lawyers is considered a good choice for South Carolina residents who are in a catastrophic accident and need a personal injury lawyer. The compassionate lawyers and staff help clients obtain the compensation they deserve. Don’t go it alone after a tanker truck accident. Call Jeff Morris at (843) 232-0944 in the Myrtle Beach area and (807) 470-4444 in Aiken to schedule a free case review. If it is more convenient for you, reach out to us online.
Tanker Truck Contents
Substances carried by a tanker truck include:
- Gasoline
- Diesel fuel
- Chemicals
- Ethanol
- Radioactive materials
- Pesticides
- Milk
Dangerous Cargo
- Fire is a real danger in a tanker truck accident. This is due to the flammable liquids that they often carry. Burns are devastating injuries and often require specialized care along with the prospect of multiple surgeries. This prolongs the time the injured party is hospitalized and increases the financial cost of treatment. This type of injury can lead to disfigurement and scarring.
- Explosions are possible in tanker truck accidents. An explosion can cause damage to nearby vehicles, houses or businesses.
- Chemical burns can be life-threatening. These result from the caustic nature of many substances.
- Leaks after an accident involving a tanker truck are common. Such spills cause injury to other drivers. Exposure to the contents of the tanker truck can also affect other drivers and nearby residents and businesses. In addition, the spill can leech into the ground, contaminating nearby water sources and require cleanup efforts.
- Rollovers are an issue when the tank is not fully loaded. The contents in this situation tend to slosh around and cause imbalances.
- Radioactive substances carried by many tanker trucks are especially dangerous due to their effect on the human body.
Reasons for Tanker Truck Accidents
Frequent reasons for tanker truck accidents are:
- Inexperienced drivers
- Distracted driving
- Speeding
- Cargo issues
- Poor or defective brakes
- Lack of maintenance
- Defective auto parts
Recoverable Damages After a Tanker Truck Accident
Treatment after an accident can cause financial hardship along with the inability to work. The following are recoverable:
- Lost wages
- Medical and surgical care
- Loss of future earnings
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional anguish
- Scarring
- Disfigurement
Government Laws For Transportation of Hazardous Materials
The government has established rules that try to prevent injuries caused by the transportation of hazardous materials. For example, the substances must be sealed and secured correctly. The truck must deploy labels that warn other drivers of the dangerous cargo. Trucks must be maintained and inspected prior to each trip to prevent problems.
Morris Law Accident Injury Lawyers
The Morris Law Accident Injury Lawyers has an excellent record of resolving truck accidents successfully. Reach out to them at (843) 232-0944 or (807) 470-4444 or contact them online. You will not be charged for the case review. Since we work on a contingency basis, you will also not pay us until you win your case.
