Side-Impact Truck Accidents in Rancho Mirage

Side-impact truck accidents can cause catastrophic injuries because the side of a passenger vehicle offers less protection for the driver and occupants than the front and rear would in other types of collisions. Most side-impact truck accidents happen at intersections due to traffic violations. If a trucker does not come to a complete stop or wait to make a turn until it is safe, they can T-bone a passing vehicle. In other cases, the truck driver could cause an accident because they are distracted, tired, or under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

If you sustained injuries in a side-impact truck accident in Rancho Mirage, you could pursue financial compensation for your injuries and losses. Truckers and their employers are responsible for accidents caused by their negligence. Call our truck accident attorneys to discuss your case.

Common Causes of Side-Impact Truck Accidents

Side impact truck accidents happen when a truck crashes into the side of another vehicle. In any car accident, passengers have the least amount of protection on the side, but due to the size and weight of commercial trucks, T-bone accidents can destroy the other vehicle and cause serious or even fatal injuries.

Safely driving a truck requires a certain set of skills, and truckers receive training to help them maneuver the vehicle safely to reduce the risk to other vehicles. When driving, truckers are taught to check their blind spots and avoid distractions. Side impact truck accidents are often caused by trucker negligence, including:

• Speeding or reckless driving
• Texting while driving
• Running a stop sign or red light
• Failure to check blind spots
• Unsafe passing
• Defective brakes or tires
• Failure to yield
• Driving under the influence

Driver error is almost always a factor in Rancho Mirage side-impact truck accidents. However, other common factors include mechanical failures, bad weather, and road hazards. After a truck accident, hire an attorney to investigate the cause of the crash and determine fault.

Fault After a Side-Impact Truck Accident

Liability in a side-impact truck accident case in Rancho Mirage will depend on the cause of the crash. Many assume the trucker is the only party responsible for damages caused by their negligence, but in some cases, the trucking company or manufacturer can share liability for injuries. For example, many truck drivers are classified as independent contractors to avoid liability. However, if the trucker was acting within the scope of their employment at the time of the crash, their employer could be responsible.

An attorney can argue that a trucker is an employee as opposed to an independent contractor and pursue a claim with the trucking company’s insurer. Likewise, when defective parts or mechanical failures cause a truck accident, the injured person could pursue compensation from the manufacturer.

Contact an Attorney After a Rancho Mirage Side-Impact Truck Accident

If you were injured in a side-impact truck accident in Rancho Mirage, you have a right to pursue compensation from the truck driver and their employer. A lawsuit can cover the cost of your medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and property damage related to the collision.

A lawyer could assist by investigating the circumstances of the accident and proving liability. If a truck company or their insurance disputes fault for the crash, we could advocate on your behalf that the trucker’s actions fall within the scope of their employment. Call our office to set up a free consultation.