Baton Rouge Box Truck Accidents

Injured in a Box Truck Accident? We Can Help

Box truck accidents can cause devastating injuries due to the size and weight of these vehicles, leaving victims with mounting medical bills, lost wages, and emotional trauma. If you or a loved one has been injured in a box truck accident, you deserve a Baton Rouge truck accident attorney that will fight tirelessly for your rights. At Chris Corzo Injury Attorneys, our experienced truck accident lawyers have recovered billions of dollars for our clients and are ready to put our expertise to work for you.

Don’t face this challenging time alone. Call us today at (225) 999-1111 or visit our contact page to schedule a free consultation. Let our Baton Rouge box truck accident attorney help you take the first step toward recovery and justice.

What Is a Box Truck?

A box truck, also known as a cube truck, cube van, or box van, is a commercial vehicle characterized by a large, rectangular cargo area. The cargo space is typically enclosed, resembling a large box, which sits on the chassis of the truck.

Box trucks are widely used for transporting goods, furniture, appliances, and other large items due to their spacious and secure cargo area. They are commonly seen in moving services, delivery companies, and various industries requiring the transportation of sizable goods.

The driver’s cabin is usually separate from the cargo area, though some models have a pass-through door. The size and capacity of box trucks can vary, ranging from small, van-sized models to larger trucks capable of carrying several tons of cargo.

Why Are Collisions With Box Trucks So Dangerous?

Collisions with box trucks can be particularly dangerous for several reasons, including their:

• Size and Weight: Box trucks are significantly larger and heavier than standard passenger vehicles. When a collision occurs, the force of impact is much greater due to the truck’s mass, leading to more severe damage and injuries.
• Blind Spots: Box trucks have large blind spots, especially around the sides and rear. This can make it difficult for truck drivers to see smaller vehicles and pedestrians, increasing the risk of accidents.
• Higher Ground Clearance: The elevated height of box trucks compared to passenger vehicles can lead to more severe impacts, especially if a smaller vehicle gets trapped underneath the truck. This can cause significant damage to the smaller vehicle and its occupants.
• Cargo Shifting: If a box truck’s cargo is not properly secured, it can shift during a collision, potentially causing additional hazards such as falling debris or loss of control of the truck.
• Stopping Distance: Due to their weight, box trucks require a longer distance to come to a complete stop. In emergency situations, this extended stopping distance can lead to more severe collisions if the truck is unable to stop in time.
• Driver Fatigue: Truck drivers often work long hours, leading to fatigue. Fatigued drivers are more likely to make mistakes, which increases the risk of accidents.
• Limited Maneuverability: Box trucks are less maneuverable than smaller vehicles, making it more difficult for drivers to avoid collisions or navigate tight spaces.

These factors combined make collisions involving box trucks more dangerous and often result in more severe consequences compared to accidents involving smaller vehicles.

Common Injuries Sustained From Box Truck Accidents

Accidents involving box trucks can lead to a range of serious injuries due to the size and weight of the vehicles involved. Common injuries sustained from such accidents include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Head injuries are common, especially if occupants of smaller vehicles strike their heads against the interior of the vehicle or if they are ejected during the crash. TBIs can range from concussions to severe brain damage.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: The force of a collision can cause injuries to the spine, potentially resulting in partial or complete paralysis. Such injuries can have long-term or permanent effects on mobility and quality of life.
• Fractures and Broken Bones: The impact of a collision can lead to fractures or breaks in various bones, including limbs, ribs, and the pelvis. These injuries often require medical intervention and can have long-lasting effects on mobility and function.
• Internal Injuries: The force of the crash can cause damage to internal organs, leading to conditions such as internal bleeding, organ rupture, or damage to the lungs, liver, or spleen. These injuries can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: Injuries to muscles, tendons, and ligaments, such as sprains, strains, and tears, are common. Whiplash, a type of neck injury caused by rapid back-and-forth movement, is also frequent in truck accidents.
• Facial Injuries: Facial injuries, including cuts, bruises, and fractures, can occur, particularly if the occupants are thrown against the steering wheel, dashboard, or windows.

The severity of injuries often depends on various factors, including the speed of the vehicles involved, the angle of impact, and whether the occupants were wearing seat belts.

Do Box Trucks Drivers adhere to the Hours of Service Regulations?

Box truck drivers are subject to Hours of Service (HOS) regulations, but adherence can vary. The Hours of Service regulations, established by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), are designed to ensure that commercial drivers have adequate rest and are not overworked, which helps reduce the risk of accidents due to fatigue.

Key HOS regulations include:

• Driving Limits: Drivers can drive a maximum of 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty.
• 14-Hour Rule: The 14-hour window rule prohibits drivers from driving after being on duty for 14 hours, even if they have not reached the 11-hour driving limit.
• Rest Breaks: Drivers must take a 30-minute break after 8 hours of driving.
• Weekly Limits: Drivers are limited to a maximum of 60 hours of driving over 7 consecutive days, or 70 hours over 8 consecutive days, depending on their operation.

Adherence Issues:

• Compliance and Monitoring: Many box truck drivers, especially those working for reputable companies, adhere to these regulations and use electronic logging devices (ELDs) to track their hours. However, compliance can be inconsistent among smaller operators or independent drivers who might not have the same oversight or resources.
• Pressure and Fatigue: Drivers might face pressure to meet tight delivery schedules, which can lead to violations of HOS regulations. This pressure can contribute to fatigue and increase the risk of accidents.
• Regulatory Changes: While HOS regulations apply broadly, there can be exceptions or changes in regulations that might impact how strictly these rules are followed.

Overall, while most box truck drivers and companies comply with HOS regulations to ensure safety, there are instances where adherence may be lacking, potentially leading to increased risks on the road.

How A Baton Rouge Box Truck Accident Lawyer Can Help You if You’ve Been Injured

An injury attorney in Baton Rouge specializing in trucking accidents will have a thorough understanding of the relevant laws and regulations, including those specific to commercial vehicles and Hours of Service rules. This expertise can help you navigate the complex legal landscape and build a strong case.

Attorneys can conduct a thorough investigation into the accident, including gathering evidence such as:

• Police reports
• Witness statements
• Accident scene photos
• Any available video footage

They may also work with accident reconstruction experts to establish the details of how the crash occurred. Additionally, an attorney can help you by:

• Determining Liability: Identifying who is at fault in a box truck accident can be complicated, as liability may involve multiple parties, such as the truck driver, the trucking company, or even manufacturers of vehicle parts. An attorney will help determine all potential sources of liability and ensure that responsible parties are held accountable.
• Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often try to settle claims quickly and for as little money as possible. An attorney can negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
• Assessing Damages: A lawyer will work with medical professionals and financial experts to accurately assess the full extent of your damages, including current and future medical costs, lost income, pain and suffering, and any long-term impacts on your quality of life.
• Filing Legal Claims and Representing You in Court: If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiation, your attorney can file a lawsuit and represent you in court. They will handle all aspects of the legal process, including drafting legal documents, presenting evidence, and arguing your case before a judge or jury.
• Providing Emotional Support and Guidance: Dealing with the aftermath of a serious accident can be emotionally challenging. An attorney can offer support and guidance throughout the legal process, helping you understand your rights and options while reducing the stress associated with pursuing a claim.

Overall, an attorney’s role is to advocate for your best interests, ensure you receive the compensation you deserve, and help you navigate the legal complexities involved in a box truck accident case.

Don’t wait to get help, contact our firm at (225) 999-1111 to schedule an initial consultation.