Truck Accident Statistics for 2007 - Auto Accident Info

The Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) releases an annual report each year determining numbers and types of accidents on America's roadways which result in fatalities. In 2007, it was found that 4,584 trucks were involved in fatal accidents for the year, which accounts for 8.2 percent of the total fatal accidents in the country.

83,908 injuries resulted from truck accidents in that same year. As the country's roads become more congested and carry more drivers, the likelihood of increasing truck accidents is ever present.

Large trucks may cause accidents as a result of slick roads and jackknifing the vehicle, driving into oncoming traffic or changing lanes, or directly rear-ending or crashing into a vehicle. Alcohol, speeding, and insufficient driver training may also lead to some of these truck accidents annually.

The truck accidents are extremely dangerous, as the vehicles are much larger and more imposing than the other automobiles involved. Large trucks may rollover, be unable to stop in time to avoid a collision, and may not always have a clear line of sight to other vehicles on the road.

It is much more likely that a party involved in a truck accident will suffer from injuries or fatalities due to the above facts. Speeds as low as 5mph have been shown to cause whiplash injuries, and higher speeds result in infinitely more serious cases.

If you have been involved in a truck accident, do not attempt to resolve the situation with the insurance companies alone. Retaining the services of a personal injury attorney can help you navigate your legal options which will best serve you and your family.

Truck accidents may result in major and lingering injuries, lost wages and jobs, or permanent disability. Personal injury law is a very specific practice requiring extensive knowledge of how to protect your rights and family's future.

For more information on your legal entitlements, it is important to speak with skilled wrongful death attorneys, truck accident attorneys, and personal injury attorneys in Pennsylvania to learn more.