Semi-trucks, tanker trucks, flatbed trucks, and other commercial trucks transport nearly every type of cargo one can imagine. This includes hazardous cargo such as flammable gas and liquid, toxic chemicals, radioactive materials, and substances that can burn and corrode. Any type of commercial truck wreck has the potential to cause serious injuries; however, hazmat truck accidents are often especially disastrous.
Injuries from Accidents Involving Hazardous Materials Are Often Catastrophic
Hazardous materials being transported by truck can leak out of the truck during a crash. Harmful gases, liquids, or solids can spread quickly – especially if the crash causes a fire or explosion. Sadly, many hazmat truck crash victims cannot survive their injuries. Those that do are often left permanently disabled or disfigured.
In addition to typical car accident injuries like broken bones and traumatic brain injuries, hazmat truck wrecks can cause:
- Chemical burns
- Burns caused by heat or flames
- Respiratory illnesses and lung problems
- Heavy metal poisoning
- Eye damage and vision loss
- Disfiguration from burns and scars
Liability for a Hazmat Truck Wreck
Victims of hazmat truck accidents often have one question on their mind after a wreck: Who is at fault when a truck containing hazardous materials crashes? This is often a tricky question to answer. Liability or legal responsibility for a hazmat truck accident often falls to the trucking company. The trucking company or carrier is responsible for ensuring that truck drivers are properly trained and capable of driving safely. The truck company is also responsible for ensuring that trucks are properly maintained and safe to transport cargo. Sometimes, the at-fault party is the party that loaded the cargo improperly. Failing to load and secure the cargo properly can cause the cargo to shift during transport or even spill out of the truck. In other cases, liability for a crash lies with a third-party driver who acted negligently.
Holding the At-Fault Party Accountable and Getting Financial Restitution
Hazmat truck wrecks can lead to profound injuries that significantly impact the victim’s quality of life. Some victims are never able to fully recover. If you or a loved one were the victim of a hazmat truck crash, you may be able to hold the liable parties accountable through a personal injury claim. You may also be entitled to financial compensation for vehicle damage, medical bills, lost wages, disability, disfigurement, pain and suffering, and more.
Our Houston Truck Accident Injury Lawyers Can Help
At the Law Office of Shane R. Kadlec, we understand the far-reaching implications of a commercial truck wreck. Our Harris County injury attorneys can help you hold the at-fault parties accountable and pursue financial compensation for your damages. Call our office today at 281-643-2000 for a free consultation.
Source:
https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/ss6402a6.htm
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