Truck Rollover Accidents in Little Rock

Truck rollover accidents are a significant concern in Little Rock, Arkansas, due to the city’s bustling transportation network and its role as a key logistical hub in the region. These accidents can have terrible consequences for victims and their families. Today we want to talk about the causes, legal implications, and steps victims should take following a truck rollover accident in Little Rock.

Truck rollover accidents involve a large commercial vehicle, such as an 18-wheeler, losing balance and tipping over onto its side or roof. These accidents are particularly dangerous due to the size and weight of the trucks, which can cause extensive damage to property and severe injuries or fatalities to the truck driver and other road users.

The Insurance Information Institute for Highway Safety reports:

Fifty percent of large truck occupant deaths in 2022 occurred in crashes in which their vehicles rolled over. This was higher than the percentage of SUV occupant deaths and pickup occupant deaths that occurred in rollover crashes and much higher than the percentage of occupant deaths in cars (21%) involving rollovers.

Causes of truck rollover accidents in Little Rock

Several factors contribute to truck rollover accidents in Little Rock, including:

• Driver error: One of the leading causes of truck rollovers is driver error. This can include speeding, abrupt maneuvers, distraction, or fatigue. Truck drivers often work long hours under tight deadlines, which can lead to fatigue and reduce their reaction time.
• Improper loading: The way cargo is loaded and secured plays a crucial role in the stability of a truck. Overloaded or improperly balanced cargo can shift during transit, causing the truck to become unbalanced and tip over.
• Mechanical failures: Faulty brakes, steering mechanisms, or tire blowouts can lead to loss of control and subsequent rollover accidents. Regular maintenance and inspections are essential to prevent these issues.
• Road conditions: Poorly maintained roads, sharp curves, and sudden changes in road conditions can also contribute to rollovers. Construction zones and wet roads increase the risk of accidents.
• Weather conditions: Adverse weather conditions like rain or high winds can affect a truck’s stability. Drivers must adjust their speed and driving techniques to account for these conditions.

Legal implications of Little Rock truck rollover accidents

Truck rollover accidents cause a variety of legal issues, particularly regarding liability and compensation. Determining fault in these accidents can be complex, involving multiple parties such as the truck driver, trucking company, maintenance providers, and even manufacturers of faulty parts.

• Liability: Establishing liability is crucial in truck rollover accidents. Arkansas follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning that victims can recover damages if they are less than 50% at fault for the accident. If multiple parties are responsible, liability may be apportioned among them.
• Federal regulations: Trucking companies and drivers must adhere to regulations set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Violations of these regulations, such as exceeding hours of service limits or failing to maintain the vehicle properly, can be used as evidence of negligence.
• Compensation: Victims of truck rollover accidents may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. In cases of wrongful death, surviving family members can seek compensation for funeral expenses and loss of companionship.

Steps to take after a truck rollover accident

If you are injured in a truck rollover accident in Little Rock, you should take some specific steps to protect your health and your ability to seek fair compensation.

• Seek medical attention: Your health and safety are your top priorities. Seek immediate medical attention for any injuries, even if they seem minor. Some injuries may not be apparent immediately after the accident.
• Report the accident: Contact local law enforcement to report the accident. An official police report will document the details, which is important for your legal case.
• Gather evidence: If possible, collect evidence at the scene. This can include photographs of the accident site, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Obtain contact information from witnesses and other parties involved in the accident.
• Do not admit fault: Avoid making statements that could be interpreted as admitting fault. Stick to the facts when discussing the accident with law enforcement and insurance representatives.
• Consult a Little Rock truck accident lawyer: Contact an experienced truck accident lawyer at Bailey & Greer PLLC as soon as possible. We can help work through your case, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary.

The role of a Little Rock truck accident lawyer

Consider the following hypothetical scenario: A truck driver in Little Rock is hauling a load of construction materials. Due to improper loading, the cargo shifts as the driver takes a sharp curve, causing the truck to tip over. The accident results in severe injuries to the driver and several other motorists.

Here’s how your lawyer can assist in a truck rollover accident case:

• Investigation: Conduct a thorough investigation of the accident to determine its cause and identify all liable parties. This may involve reviewing police reports, obtaining witness statements, and working with accident reconstruction experts.
• Evidence collection: Gather and preserve vital evidence, including truck maintenance records, driver logs, and data from the truck’s electronic logging device (ELD).
• Liability determination: Establish liability – not only on the driver, but also on the loading company and the trucking company if negligence is found.
• Negotiation with insurance companies: Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts. Your lawyer will handle all communications and negotiations with insurers to seek a fair settlement.
• Litigation: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer will prepare and present a compelling case in court to seek the compensation you deserve.
• Expert witnesses: Engage expert witnesses, such as medical professionals, accident reconstruction specialists, and economists, to strengthen your case and provide testimony on your behalf.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck rollover accident, don’t navigate this complex process alone. Reach out to the experienced Little Rock truck accident lawyers at Bailey & Greer PLLC today to ensure your rights are protected and to secure the compensation you deserve. Contact us for a free consultation and take the first step towards rebuilding your life after this devastating event. Your journey to justice and recovery starts now. Call our office or complete our contact form to schedule your free, no-obligation case review today. We have offices in Memphis, Little Rock, and Jackson for your convenience.