Are truck crashes becoming more serious during the COVID-19 pandemic?

Life as we know it has gone back to somewhat normal in Las Vegas. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic hasn't gone anywhere. This has impacted the economy like no other crisis we've ever faced.

Many shops have shut down as a result of the lockdowns and fewer people are visiting shopping malls to avoid large crowds. As a result, more people have looked to online retailers such as Amazon to purchase items. In addition, there has been a greater need for essential items such as medical supplies, food, hand sanitizer, masks, and ventilators.

Larger vehicles pose a danger to passenger car drivers

These items are delivered all over the U.S. by large commercial trucks, box trucks, and delivery vans. With an increase in larger vehicles on our roadways, there is a greater risk of serious and fatal crashes.

Larger trucks and vans pose a danger to occupants of smaller cars because their sheer size and weight. In 2018 throughout Nevada:

• 3 people were killed in crashes involving large trucks
• 40 people were killed in crashes involving light utility trucks
• 8 people were killed in crashes involving vans

Why could we see an increase in truck and van crashes?

Truck drivers and retail delivery drivers are busier now than ever. As a result, many companies may keep up with the demands by:

• Hiring anyone they can get. This can include inexperienced drivers, drivers without CDLs, and drivers with a history of citations and arrests.
• Failing to properly inspect and maintain their vehicles. Many crashes involving large trucks and delivery vehicles are linked to loose wheels, failed brakes, tire blowouts, steering issues, and other mechanical defects.
• Allowing drivers to use personal or rental vehicles. While this generally isn't a problem, some non-company vehicles may not be properly maintained or inspected.
• Pushing drivers to move faster and work longer. When drivers are pushed beyond their limits, they are more likely to be fatigued or stressed behind the wheel. This could lead to careless mistakes, speeding, aggressive driving, and drowsy driving.

The actions of drivers during these times can also endanger other road users when:

• They multitask or drive distracted
• Fail to drive safely in residential neighborhoods
• Fail to get adequate sleep before driving
• Use certain prescription medications, recreational drugs, or alcohol before driving

Why hire an attorney if I was involved in a crash with a truck or delivery van?

If you walked away from a crash involving a truck or van with only minor injuries, consider yourself lucky. Crashes involving larger vehicles often result in devastating injuries, including:

• Traumatic brain injuries
• Bone fractures
• Spinal injuries
• Internal organ damage
• Crushed limbs
• Paralysis
• Amputations
• Death

Crashes involving trucks and vans are far more complex than those involving two cars. If you were injured or lost a loved one in a truck crash, you need an experienced personal injury lawyer on your side who can take on the trucking companies and their insurers. Look no further than Lasso Injury Law.

Our legal team is dedicated to helping crash victims throughout the greater Las Vegas area get the justice and compensation they deserve. Contact us online to find out how we can help you.