Any collision involving a big rig is devastating, but especially those that result in a semi overturning. Since 18-wheelers are substantially larger and heavier than most passenger vehicles, these wrecks can have tragic consequences.
In Johnstown, rollover truck accidents require the experience of a well-practiced civil attorney. Reach out to a Johnstown 18-wheeler accident lawyer if you or a loved one were hurt by a rolling semi.
A rollover truck wreck occurs whenever the wheels of a big rig lose contact with the roadway and the vehicle flips either onto one of its sides or the roof. In some cases, a vehicle may roll multiple times before coming to a stop.
Semis typically overturn if there is an impact on the side of the vehicle, such as a T-bone accident, especially if the other vehicle was in the truck driver’s blind spot. This impact will cause the 18-wheeler to drastically change its momentum to the side, which results in the vehicle rolling over.
Pickup trucks are also prone to rolling over because they can be top-heavy. In other words, they are high from the ground which makes them more prone to tipping over as the result of any impact. The taller the truck, the more likely they are to overturn.
The injuries in a rollover truck accident can be catastrophic because the victims are not only suffering the force of the initial impact, but each impact as the vehicle rolls. This also can cause the windows to shatter, the roof to cave in, and the truck to strike nearby automobiles. This can cause occupants to suffer severe lacerations, crushing injuries, broken bones, and head trauma.
Furthermore, occupants can be ejected from the rolling vehicle if they are not wearing their seatbelt. This can result in deadly injuries, especially if the are in the path of oncoming traffic. For this reason, overturned truck accidents are some of the deadliest motor vehicle wrecks in Johnstown.
In Pennsylvania, injured parties may be able to recover two types of damages: compensatory and punitive. Compensatory damages are further divided into economic and non-economic damages.
Economic damages account for all the monetary expenses related to the rollover truck wreck. This could include medical bills, property damage, lost wages, and decreased earning capacity. If the injured party requires ongoing treatment, a solid damage claim will account for those losses as well.
Non-economic damages include the human losses suffered by the plaintiff. These are the intangible, personal impacts of a truck crash, such as pain and suffering, disability, or disfigurement. If the rollover truck accident in the area resulted in a fatality, the surviving family can seek compensation for wrongful death and funeral costs.
Punitive damages are unique in that they do not aim to compensate the injured party but rather to punish the defendant. These are reserved for cases of extreme negligence or malice. For instance, if the truck driver was intoxicated, was texting while driving, or speeding in a construction zone, a court may award punitive damages.
In Johnstown, rollover truck accidents are some of the most devastating and deadly motor vehicle collisions people can experience. For this reason, the recoverable damages in these cases are often substantial in order to fully compensate the injured persons for their losses. If you or a loved one suffered harm due to an overturned semi, call the office of Marcus & Mack today and schedule a free consultation.
