Tanker Truck Accidents Can Cause Severe Injuries

Our Atlanta lawyers fight for victims nationwide

Liquids and gases are transported in tanker trucks, which can have a capacity of a few thousand to tens of thousands of gallons. Some trucks carry milk, water, or other beverages. Others carry gasoline, chemicals, or other hazardous and flammable liquids. But no matter what a tanker truck is carrying, a truck accident can leave people seriously injured.

If trucking company or driver negligence caused a crash that left you hurt, you deserve financial compensation. But the legal process is complex and big companies have teams of lawyers. The truck accident attorneys at Fried Goldberg LLC understand the challenges you are facing and are ready to help. More than 95% of our practice is focused on truck accidents.

What causes tanker truck accidents?

Both trucking companies and truck drivers have a responsibility for the safe operation of a tanker truck on the road. Common causes of accidents include:

• Driver error – Drivers who text behind the wheel, eat or drink while driving, or engage in other distracting behaviors can take their eyes off the road and their minds off the task of driving. Others may exceed the speed limit or fail to follow federal regulations regarding breaks to avoid fatigue.
• Vehicle conditions – Trucking companies are required to keep the trucks in their fleet in good working order. That means performing regular maintenance and making any needed repairs promptly.
• Improper loading – Overloading or failing to follow proper loading procedures can result in uneven weight distribution, increasing the risk of a rollover accident.

The added dangers of hazardous materials

A tanker trunk is one of the most common methods to transport hazardous substances. These include flammable liquids (gasoline, diesel fuel, ethanol, methanol), corrosive substances (sulfuric acid, hydrochloric acid, sodium hydroxide), toxic and poisonous substances (chlorine, ammonia, formaldehyde, benzene, pesticides), compressed gases (liquefied petroleum gas, propane, butane), and hazardous waste.

A truck accident can be even more dangerous because of:

• Leaks and spills – If the tank is damaged in a collision, hazardous substances can leak or spill onto the road.
• Chemical burns – If your skin comes into contact with hazardous leaked cargo, you could suffer a serious chemical burn.
• Toxic fumes – If the chemicals are toxic, the fumes alone can be hazardous – you could inhale these fumes without realizing it as some chemicals are unscented.
• Fires – Flammable liquids that spill onto the road can lead to a fire that can quickly get out of control, especially if multiple cars are involved.
• Explosions – In some accidents involving hazardous cargo, an explosion can occur if the tank is punctured during a crash.

What should you do after an accident with a tanker truck? There are steps you can take to protect your safety – as well as your right to seek compensation. Immediately following the crash, call 911 – or have someone else call – to get the police on the scene. Avoid contact with the cargo or any leaking content, as it could be hazardous or radioactive. Get medical attention, either at the scene or at the emergency room of a local hospital.

Next, call an experienced truck accident attorney.

How can a truck accident lawyer help my case?

A tanker truck can result in devastating injuries for victims. These include head and brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, broken bones, damage to internal organs, burns, and respiratory issues. Victims may need extensive medical treatment for months or even years, and expenses can quickly become overwhelming.

You deserve financial compensation for these expenses and other damages you have suffered. But negligent drivers and trucking companies often deny doing anything wrong. Insurance companies will use their advantage to minimize your injuries so they can pay you as little as possible. They have lawyers to fight your claim.

That’s why you need an experienced truck accident lawyer who is ready to fight for you.

‘The Truck Accident Attorneys’

Our firm is dedicated to fighting for victims of truck accidents. We have extensive experience in trucking litigation and know what it takes to build a strong case that gets the attention of insurance companies. Our firm has resolved more than one hundred cases in amounts that exceed $1 million through verdicts and settlements.

The attorneys at Fried Goldberg understand the impact a truck accident can have on you and your family. We are determined to help you get the best possible outcome and can guide you through the legal process every step of the way. If you were hurt in a tanker truck accident, you may not be sure what to do next. That’s why it’s important to get legal advice as soon as possible. One of our attorneys can meet with you to review the details of your accident, discuss your legal options for recovering compensation, and answer any questions you have. Contact us to schedule a free consultation.