One type of non collision truck related accidents happen when a truck starts losing its load. This can be caused by a back trailer door that is not properly secured, or malfunctions. The door can fly open and the contents can start spilling out. These can hit oncoming cars, seriously injuring the driver or causing them to run into another vehicle. The truck contents could also land in the roadway, blocking lanes so cars have to maneuver into adjoining lanes to miss the debris.

This kind of load spill can result in numerous accidents. Meanwhile the truck driver may be unaware and continue down the highways, oblivious of the problems he is leaving behind him. If the truck driver is not stopped the truck contents could continue to fall out resulting in more accidents. The truck driver could certainly be held liable, provided they were caught.

Another type of non collision truck accident happens when a truck spills a hazardous material. The spill might result from a truck that rolls over or jackknives. It could even happen from a poorly loaded tank which begins to leak.  A hazmat spill can cause injuries in several ways.

Depending on the material, it could damage any surface that it gets on. If it spills near or on a water basin it is possible that it could get into the community’s water supply. Hazmat authorities may have to cordon off a large area around the spill which could economically damage area businesses. If the material is gaseous it could cause respiratory problems for anyone in the area.

This is the type of truck accident which most likely would face some kind of litigation. An experienced truck accident attorney would find multiple cases, depending on how people were injured by the accident. While there was no collision, multiple people in the spill area could potentially file lawsuits against the driver and the trucking company seeking compensation.

Both of these non collision truck accidents might have been avoided with proper maintenance and careful driving. Truck drivers must secure their loads and check door latches before they get out on the road. Truck drivers who transport hazardous materials are required to take extra precautions when moving these dangerous loads. They need to continuously check the tanks or material holders to ensure that the material is not leaking out. They also have to drive carefully to avoid rollovers or jackknives.

Victims of these kinds of truck accidents may want to consult with an experienced truck accident lawyer to discuss their options. An attorney will be able to determine if they have a strong enough case to take to court.

This article is not intended for legal advice.

Continued Legal Tools: For additional information pertaining to non-collision truck accidents visit the Law Offices of Gordon & Elias, LLP.