Las Vegas, NV (December 3rd, 2024) – An illegal U-turn caused a fatal semi-truck crash involving four tractor-trailers in Las Vegas on November 22, 2024. The accident marks the 68th fatal accident this year, according to local officials.
The chain-reaction trucking accident occurred when a box truck attempting to avoid the illegally turning semi-truck struck the truck bed of a third tractor-trailer, a black Peterbuilt. This caused the black Peterbuilt to skid, and it struck the back of a fourth semi-truck. The driver of the box truck died at the scene. The driver who made the illegal turn fled the scene before police arrived.
How Illegal U-Turns by Semi-Trucks Lead to Accidents
Illegal U-turns, especially those performed by large commercial vehicles, can have serious consequences. These maneuvers are inherently dangerous due to the sheer size and weight of these vehicles. When a semi-truck makes an illegal U-turn, it can:
Obstruct Traffic
Semi-trucks have large blind spots. When a truck driver attempts an illegal U-turn, these blind spots can obscure the view of oncoming traffic. Consequently, sudden and unexpected collisions may occur as the truck drivers may not see the other vehicles approaching.
Reduce Maneuverability
The sheer size and weight of tractor-trailers make them difficult to maneuver, especially in tight spaces or during sudden turns. An illegal U-turn can force a driver to make sharp, abrupt movements that can destabilize the vehicle, increasing the risk of rollover accidents or jackknifing.
Increase Stopping Distance
Large commercial trucks require a significantly longer stopping distance compared to passenger vehicles. The increased stopping distance is due to their weight and the braking systems designed to handle such heavy loads. If a truck driver needs to make an emergency stop after an illegal U-turn, the increased stopping distance can lead to rear-end collisions with other vehicles.
Traffic Congestion and Confusion
Illegal U-turns can cause significant traffic disruptions. As the truck blocks lanes and maneuvers unpredictably, it can lead to confusion among other drivers, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
Such may have been the circumstances in the case of the recent fatal crash in Las Vegas. The box truck driver appeared to have been attempting to avoid the illegally turning tractor-trailer. The driver of the truck making the illegal U-turn fled the scene.
Understanding Liability in Fatal Semi-Truck Crashes
When fatal crashes involving semi-trucks occur, determining liability can be complex. Depending on the circumstances, varying parties can be held financially responsible, from the driver or trucking company to the vehicle manufacturer or maintenance company. An experienced Las Vegas truck accident attorney may help determine the liable party, which may include:
The Truck Driver
If the truck driver was negligent in their actions, such as failing to yield the right of way, speeding, or driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, they may be held personally liable. In cases where the driver’s actions were particularly reckless, such as intentionally disregarding traffic laws or driving at excessive speeds, they may face criminal charges in addition to civil liability.
The Trucking Company
If the trucking company failed to conduct proper background checks, drug tests, or training for its drivers, they may be held liable for the driver’s negligence. In addition to ensuring their drivers are adequately trained and operate their vehicles safely, trucking companies must also make sure their vehicles are properly maintained. In the event of accidents resulting from mechanical failures, the trucking company may bear some or all of the responsibility.
The Truck Manufacturer
In some cases, a defective vehicle component, such as a faulty brake system or defective tire, could contribute to the accident. If a manufacturing defect is detected, the truck manufacturer may also be held liable.
The Truck Maintenance Company
Sometimes, trucking companies use third-party maintenance companies to perform repairs and keep their vehicles in working condition. If the truck was not properly maintained, the company may be held liable for any resulting accidents.
What to Do After a Tractor-Trailer Accident in Nevada
Following tractor-trailer accidents, it’s important for those involved to take immediate steps to protect their rights. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, there were approximately 494,000 trucking accidents reported in Nevada and across the U.S. in 2021. Knowing what to do in the aftermath of such serious wrecks can help those involved to recover compensation for their injury-associated losses.
Seek Medical Attention
After a trucking accident, their health and well-being, and that of any passengers in their vehicles, should be the driver’s priority. They should check for injuries, and seek medical attention, even if they feel relatively okay. Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal injuries, may not immediately show. In case the need to pursue legal action with the assistance of a personal injury attorney presents, it may be helpful for truck accident victims to document their medical treatments, diagnoses, and prescriptions.
Document the Accident
If they are able, those involved in truck accidents should document the incident. To this end, they should gather as much information as possible about the accident, including taking photos of the scene, injuries, and damaged vehicles. They should also get the names and contact information for any witnesses, as well as the license plate number of the semi-truck involved, the name of the trucking company, and the driver’s information. If possible, it can also be helpful for those injured in truck accidents to take photos of the truck’s logbook. Such information may help determine if the driver was adhering to the hours-of-service regulations.
Contact the Authorities
Drivers should report trucking accidents to local law enforcement. The authorities will take an official report of the accident, which will include information about the cause and any citations issued. Those injured in such collisions should obtain a copy of the police report for their own records. The details included in such reports may aid with how to prove they are not at fault in a car accident.
When interacting with law enforcement at the scene of a truck accident, those involved should take care to avoid apologizing or admitting fault for the accident, even if they feel partly responsible. The authorities or insurance companies may take such statements as evidence of fault.
Consult with a Personal Injury Attorney
Trucking accidents can leave people struggling with serious injuries, as well as emotional and financial challenges. As soon as possible after involvement in such wrecks, those injured should consult with experienced Las Vegas motor vehicle accident attorneys to discuss their cases. A lawyer can explain their legal rights and options, in addition to helping them gather evidence, negotiate with the insurance companies, and provide representation in court, if necessary.With more than 30 years of experience, our attorney at George Bochanis Injury Law Offices understands the unique challenges you and your family may face after an accident injury. Since 1985, we have represented the interests of those injured due to the negligence of others. Contact our team today to discuss your options in Las Vegas at 702-388-2005.
