Most people think that truckers are more protected in an automobile-truck collision simply due to the larger size of the vehicle they are driving. But research shows that commercial truckers are exposed to a high risk of workplace injury and death as a result of an accident while operating their rig or working at the loading dock. Over a five-year period, from 2011 to 2016, there was an increase of 17% more commercial trucker fatalities while driving in Texas. In fact, commercial truck driving leads the list of occupations in which individuals are most likely to experience a workplace injury that can lead to death.
Causation of Commercial Truck Accidents
There are numerous reasons why commercial truck drivers have such a high risk of workplace accident-related injuries and fatalities. They usually work long hours under stressful conditions, operate heavy equipment, often drive through unfamiliar areas, and can be exposed to dangerous conditions at the loading dock at the start or conclusion of their trip. Not only are commercial truckers exposed to inclement weather and dangerous road conditions while driving their vehicle, but they are also exposed to workplace hazards at the loading docks where they begin and end their shift.
At the loading dock, commercial truckers are susceptible to falling from all of the following:
- Truck ladders
- Lifts
- Loading docks
They can also be hurt by all of these other circumstances:
- Straining and injuring back muscles when lifting heavy objects
- Repetitive motion injuries due to carrying heavy packages
- Being struck by 18-wheelers backing up in the loading dock area
- Loading dock separation accidents
- Accidents involving the operation of forklifts and front end loaders
If you are a commercial truck driver and have experienced a workplace injury, either on the road or at the loading dock, it’s in your best interest to consult with a personal injury law firm like Briggle & Polan, PLLC, because we know and understand the complex legal aspects involved in determining liability for trucking injuries and fatalities. If you are a commercial trucker who operates your own vehicle as an independent contractor, you will have to provide evidence of negligence or equipment failure in order to claim financial compensation for physical injuries, lost time away from work, and pain and suffering.
Briggle & Polan, PLLC, is Austin’s premier personal injury law firm that knows how to navigate through the legal system affecting commercial trucker workplace injuries and fatalities. We are experienced not only at trucking accident claims but also work injury claims. You can put your trust in us to fight for your rights as a commercial trucker who has experienced a workplace injury, either while driving on the roadways in and around Austin, or while loading and unloading your truck at the loading dock area. We can also pursue financial damages through wrongful death lawsuits in the event your spouse was a commercial trucker and died as a result of injuries suffered while on the job. Contact us today for a free consultation at (512) 400-3278.
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