Congested Highways and Truck Accidents
Truck Drivers Can Make Poor Decisions In Heavy Traffic
Major highways in and around Columbus, Ohio can get very congested during rush hour. Traffic can slow to a crawl and tempers can rise. These conditions can easily result in a truck accident that causes serious injuries. Truck accident attorney Scott Elliot Smith know because he has been fighting for victims of these accidents for more than three decades.
Drivers of commercial trucks are often under pressure to deliver their cargo on time, and a congested highway slows them down and puts them behind schedule. The added stress can lead them to make poor decisions in an attempt to get back on schedule.
For example, they may follow too closely behind other cars, or drive too fast for conditions. Since it takes longer for a commercial truck to come to a complete stop, this increases the risk of crashing into the vehicle in front of them. Improper braking can also cause a tractor-trailer to jackknife. Or, a driver may abruptly change lanes, crashing into a car that is sitting in one of the truck's blind spots.
Why Truck Accidents Happen on Busy Highways
Another factor may be fatigue. Commercial truck drivers work long shifts and spend many hours behind the wheel. Navigating a congested highway requires being able to adjust quickly to conditions, but fatigue slows reaction time and can lead to an accident.
Since a commercial truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, a collision with a passenger car can cause significant damage, even at reduced speeds. And when a highway is congested, with hundreds of vehicles traveling close together, there is a strong likelihood of multiple vehicles being involved in the collision, and multiple people with serious injuries.
If you've been injured in a truck accident, it can have a devastating effect on your life. You may need surgery, hospitalization, physical therapy and medication. Medical expenses can add up quickly. And your injuries may prevent you from returning to work, making it much harder to support yourself and your family.
Aggressive Attorney Who Fights For Your Rights
That's why you need the Smith Law Office on your side. Scott Elliot Smith has been helping victims of truck accidents for more than three decades. He understands why these accidents happen and knows how to find the evidence you need to prove negligence by truck drivers and trucking companies. And he will aggressively pursue your case until you get justice.
Scott Elliot Smith will fight to recover damages for your injuries, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress and any disfigurement or disability. If the trucking company and their insurance company are not willing to negotiate a favorable settlement with you, he's prepared to fight them in court.
Don't worry about whether or not you can afford an experienced truck accident lawyer. The Smith Law Office works on a contingency fee basis. You don't pay a penny unless we recover damages for you. That way, you can focus on what really matters - your recovery.
Start today. Call Scott Elliot Smith at 614-846-1700 to make an appointment for a free consultation, or contact us online.
Bring any documentation you have related to your accident, such as police reports or medical records. Scott Elliot Smith will review the details of your case and explain your legal options. He can also answer any questions you have. There's no obligation. Just a consultation so you can make an informed decision about what to do next. Call today.