Call Us atNo matter what they are called—tractor-trailers, big rigs, semis, or 18-wheelers—heavy trucks are more likely to roll over because of their shifting center of gravity. Trucks remain the most stable when drivers or loaders evenly distribute their weight, including cargo. When someone removes cargo, it changes the center of gravity and makes trucks less stable, often causing rollover truck accidents in Bothell.
If you have been involved in a rollover accident, a skilled truck accident attorney could help you navigate the legal process and pursue compensation for your losses. With expertise in truck accident cases, they can investigate factors like improper cargo loading or driver negligence to build a strong case on your behalf.
Why Do Trucks Rollover?
Trucks roll over when gravity pulls the cargo away from the center of gravity, making them less stable. If a trucker is driving too fast for road conditions or takes a curve at high speed, the trucker cannot compensate for the rapid loss of stability, and the vehicle begins to tip. In Bothell, one of the following factors causes a rollover truck accident:
Speeding
If trucks enter a curve or make a sharp turn too fast, the center of gravity shifts, pulling the truck over. Workers load and unload trucks as they deliver cargo along their route, which alters the center of gravity. If drivers do not adjust their driving speed to accommodate the changing cargo, they risk a rollover.
Distracted Driving
Drivers in Washington state cannot hold a cell phone while driving, even if it is not in use—only hands-free devices are allowed. Other distractions, such as eating or grooming, can result in truck rollovers. If drivers have not followed federal guidelines for sleeping, they may become less attentive and slower to respond to potential accident risks.
Loss of Control
Road conditions like subzero temperatures, blowing snow, or torrential rains change the driving surface. Unless drivers take steps to adjust for poor road conditions, they can lose control. Drivers may over- or under-correct a driving maneuver that sends the truck into a rollover.
Pre-Departure Checks
Truckers may rush through their pre-checklist. In their hurry to be on the road, they may overlook tire safety or ignore the loading process. They may focus on staying on schedule and neglect maintenance issues that require attention.
How to Prove Negligence In a Rollover Truck Accident Case
Proving negligence in a trucking accident can be complex because multiple parties might share responsibility. For example, the trucking company may fail to inspect their fleet regularly or encourage drivers to exceed the mandatory 14-hour day. If the trucking company uses a third-party maintenance firm, they may have overlooked critical repairs or used substandard materials when making repairs.
A dedicated attorney takes the time to investigate the accident, looking at all responsible parties for potential negligence. That means working with multiple insurance companies to negotiate settlements or filing lawsuits if the parties fail to reach a settlement.
To prove negligence in a Bothell rollover truck accident, injured parties must establish that the responsible parties:
- Had a legal obligation to ensure the safety of others
- Failed to execute their legal obligation
- Their failure resulted in injuries
- Injuries were the result of their actions
Through witness statements, accident reconstruction, medical records, and police reports, knowledgeable lawyers can outline options and suggest a strategy to secure fair compensation.
Contact Libbey Law for Bothell Rollover Tractor Trailer Accident Claims
If you are involved in a rollover truck accident in Bothell, contact an experienced law firm, such as Libbey Law, as soon as possible. Although Washington state allows injured parties up to three years from the accident date to file a claim, gathering evidence years after an accident can be challenging. Investigators may no longer be able to locate witnesses, and new owners may have taken over the companies involved. With the help of Libbey Law, you can still receive the compensation you deserve years after an injury.
Contact us today to speak with an experienced attorney about your case.
