Protecting You After a Devastating Trucking Wreck
At Chris Corzo Injury Attorneys, we understand the devastating impact that tanker truck accidents can have on victims and their families. These accidents often result in catastrophic injuries, significant property damage, and even loss of life. If you or a loved one has been involved in a tanker truck accident in Baton Rouge, it is crucial to seek experienced legal representation to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. As a dedicated Baton Rouge tanker truck accident attorney, we are here to guide you through the legal process and ensure that justice is served.
Contact our Baton Rouge truck accident lawyer online or at (225) 999-1111 to schedule a free consultation today.
What Is a Tanker Truck?
Tanker trucks are large commercial vehicles designed to transport liquids, gases, and sometimes dry bulk materials. These vehicles are easily recognizable by their cylindrical tanks, which are typically mounted on a trailer that is hauled by a truck. Tanker trucks are commonly used to transport hazardous materials such as gasoline, chemicals, industrial solvents, and other volatile substances. Due to the nature of their cargo, tanker trucks are subject to stringent safety regulations and require specialized training for drivers to handle them safely.
Tanker trucks vary in size, but they generally have a higher center of gravity, making them more prone to tipping over, especially when navigating sharp turns or uneven terrain. The combination of their size, weight, and potentially dangerous cargo makes tanker trucks one of the most hazardous types of vehicles on the road.
Common Types of Tanker Truck Accidents
Tanker truck accidents can occur in various ways, each with the potential to cause severe damage and injury. Some of the most common types of tanker truck accidents include:
- Rollovers: Due to the high center of gravity and the shifting of liquid cargo, tanker trucks are particularly susceptible to rollovers. A rollover can occur if the driver takes a turn too quickly, encounters an obstacle, or if the liquid inside the tank shifts suddenly.
- Jackknife Accidents: Jackknifing occurs when the trailer of the tanker truck swings out to the side, forming an angle with the truck’s cab. This type of accident is often caused by sudden braking, slippery road conditions, or driver error. Jackknife accidents can lead to multi-vehicle collisions, causing extensive damage and injuries.
- Spills and Leaks: If a tanker truck is involved in an accident, the contents of the tank may spill or leak onto the road. This can create hazardous conditions, including fire, explosions, or exposure to toxic substances. Spills and leaks can also lead to environmental damage, which can complicate the cleanup and legal processes.
- Rear-End Collisions: Due to the size and weight of tanker trucks, they require a longer distance to come to a complete stop. If a tanker truck rear-ends another vehicle or is rear-ended by another driver, the force of the collision can be devastating, especially if the tank ruptures or the cargo is flammable.
- Underride Accidents: In an underride accident, a smaller vehicle can become lodged under the rear or side of the tanker truck. These accidents are often fatal due to the significant size difference between the vehicles and the potential for the passenger compartment to be crushed.
Who Is Liable in a Tanker Truck Accident?
Determining liability in a tanker truck accident can be complex, as multiple parties may be involved. Potentially liable parties include:
- The Truck Driver: If the accident was caused by the driver’s negligence, such as speeding, distracted driving, or impairment, the driver may be held liable for the damages.
- The Trucking Company: The company that owns and operates the tanker truck may be held liable if they failed to properly maintain the vehicle, enforce safety regulations, or adequately train their drivers.
- The Cargo Loader: If the accident was caused by improper loading of the tanker, the party responsible for loading the cargo may be held liable.
- The Vehicle Manufacturer: In cases where a mechanical failure, such as brake failure or tire blowout, contributed to the accident, the manufacturer of the truck or its components may be held liable.
- Third-Party Contractors: If a third-party contractor was responsible for maintaining the truck or providing services related to the operation of the vehicle, they may also be held liable for the accident.
How Our Baton Rouge Tanker Truck Accident Lawyer Can Help
If you have been injured in a tanker truck accident, it is essential to have an experienced Baton Rouge tanker truck accident attorney on your side. At Chris Corzo Injury Attorneys, our injury lawyers in Baton Rouge will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of the accident, gather evidence, and identify all potentially liable parties. We will work tirelessly to build a strong case on your behalf and pursue the maximum compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
For effective advocacy, call our Baton Rouge tanker truck accident lawyer today at (225) 999-1111.