Commercial trucks and 18-wheelers are massive machines that require special knowledge and skill to handle properly. A single mistake or a miscalculation on the part of a driver can end up resulting in serious truck accidents, which often end up involving other motorists. A recent crash in Portland is an example of one of the most common and dangerous types of truck accidents, in which the vehicle actually rolls over.
Rollover Truck Accident in Portland Results in Injuries
According to a report by KATU 2 News, a rollover truck accident ended up blocking traffic in both directions on Northeast Marine Drive during the morning rush hour. The crash occurred on Wednesday, March 27, 2019 in the vicinity of Northeast 122nd Avenue. Witnesses claim several trucks were involved in the incident and that the crash occurred after a flat-bed truck attempted to avoid another truck driver who had pulled out in front of him.
As the flatbed driver slammed on the brakes and swerved to avoid hitting the other truck, he collided with a driver in a white sedan. The sudden movement of the flatbed and the sharp angle of the swerve caused the truck to rollover. In the process, both the sedan and the flatbed ended up going over the embankment. Firefighters worked to extract the sedan driver from the wreckage. He was taken to a local hospital with serious injuries.
Rollovers Are a Common Type of Truck Accident
Studies conducted by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) indicate that rollovers are one of the most common types of truck accidents. They are also one of the most potentially severe. Depending on the contents of the truck, cargo can end up spilling onto the road, creating significant hazards for other motorists. As truck accidents often happen on busy highways and interstates, there are often other motorists nearby when a rollover occurs and motorists even several lanes away can suffer damage to their vehicles and injuries to themselves as the result of the wreckage.
According to truck and auto insurer AIG, there are several common factors which are often involved in rollover truck accidents:
- Trucks have a higher center of gravity than motor vehicles and are naturally more inclined to rollover;
- Shifting cargo and unevenly balanced loads increase the likelihood that a rollover will occur;
- The long length of a truck and its massive weight make it harder to manage sudden stops, curves, and swerving, causing drivers to lose control and making the truck unbalanced;
- Trucks with partial loads and liquid loads, such as oil, gas, or other fluids, tend to be even more vulnerable to rollovers.
When rollover truck accidents do occur, both the trucking company and the driver may be held liable for the damages you suffer.
Contact Our Portland Truck Accident Attorneys
When truck accidents leave you suffering serious injuries, the Johnston Law Firm can help you hold responsible parties accountable. To discuss your case, call our office at (503) 546-3167 or contact our Portland truck accident attorneys online to request a free consultation today.