While some collisions may be unavoidable, there are factors that can increase the chances that you are caught up in a commercial truck accident. Understanding North Carolina truck accident statistics can help you stay aware of the riskiest situations that can lead to a devastating crash. Common causes of truck collisions include negligent drivers, inadequate maintenance, and improperly secured cargo.
Why You Should Hire a Truck Accident Lawyer
Attempting to negotiate with an insurer or trucking group without legal counsel could be a costly mistake. North Carolina truck accident laws require injured parties to prove fault by presenting evidence and strong legal arguments.
When you hire a truck accident lawyer from the Law Office of Lyndon R. Helton, PLLC, you gain the unwavering support of a truck accident attorney who cares about your rights and financial future.
An injury lawyer can relieve much of the stress you are under by gathering evidence and developing the right legal strategy to help you move forward with the financial resources you need to rebuild and recover.
North Carolina Truck Accident Statistics
According to data from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, North Carolina recorded 4,992 non-fatal crashes and 135 fatal crashes in 2024 that were tied to large trucks. The North Carolina Department of Transportation’s 2023 Traffic Crash Facts report shows an overall 3.8% increase in statewide traffic crashes in 2023.
Lincoln County reported 14 traffic-related deaths in 2022 and 15 in 2023, with heavy truck activity concentrated along NC-73 and NC-16 near neighborhoods such as Westport and Lowesville.
Alexander County documented six traffic-related fatalities in 2022 and 12 in 2023 in cities like Taylorsville, Hiddenite, and on roads like the NC-90 corridor.
Iredell County saw 31 traffic-related fatalities in 2022 and 23 in 2023, including along I-77, I-40, and busy areas near Mooresville, Troutman, and Statesville.
Tips for Avoiding Truck Collisions in North Carolina
Understanding how semi-trucks operate can help you avoid truck collisions in North Carolina. Large commercial trucks need space to turn, brake, and change lanes. By maintaining a safe distance from these vehicles, you can provide yourself with more time to react while minimizing the chances of being in a car collision.
Avoid lingering in the truck’s blind spots, which are along the sides of either trailer. Given the driver’s position on the left side of a commercial vehicle, the right side of a commercial truck is particularly hard for truck drivers to see.
Bad weather also increases stopping distances, and loose debris from unsecured cargo can create hazards, so extra caution is essential on rural highways and interstates. Remaining alert, limiting distractions, and anticipating wide turns can significantly reduce your chances of a dangerous collision.
What to Do if You Are Struck by a Commercial Truck
If you are struck by a commercial truck, call 911 to report the collision. Tell the dispatcher which road or highway you are on and how many people may be injured. If your vehicle is drivable, move away from traffic and to a safe location while you await police and EMS.
If you can safely do so, take photos of the scene of the collision and gather contact information from the parties involved in the collision and potential eyewitnesses. Do not discuss details of the case with anyone, and notify your insurance company promptly. If you were injured, you have the right to secure legal representation to protect and strengthen your claim.
FAQs
Who Can Be Found Liable for a Truck Accident in North Carolina?
In North Carolina, multiple parties can potentially be found liable for a truck accident, including the driver, the trucking company, the cargo loader, and those responsible for maintenance of the truck. Your attorney can help you determine who you can hold responsible and seek damages from in your personal injury claim.
Is North Carolina a No-Fault State for Vehicle Accidents?
North Carolina is not a no-fault state for vehicle accidents. North Carolina holds at-fault parties financially liable for causing collisions. The state also follows a strict contributory negligence rule that bars recovery when the injured party has any amount of fault in a collision. Even with that legal framework, injured drivers and passengers can hold negligent drivers accountable for the harm they cause when they hire an injury lawyer.
Are Truck Accidents Linked to Driver Negligence or Equipment Failure?
Truck accidents can often be linked to either driver negligence or equipment failure. Following a collision, establishing fault is a crucial first step for anyone seeking accountability and compensation. By working with an experienced injury lawyer, you can establish fault by allowing your attorney to investigate the cause of the collision.
What Factors Cause Most Truck Accidents in North Carolina?
Truck accidents are often caused by negligence on the part of the truck operator. When truck drivers are distracted or fail to maintain a safe speed, they can cause collisions that leave injured victims facing serious hardships and setbacks. With legal representation, injured passengers and drivers can hold the negligent driver accountable for the harm they endured.
Contact a Truck Injury Law Firm Focused on Your Rights and Interests
If you were injured due to the negligence of a truck driver in North Carolina, you need representation from a law firm that puts your interests first. For decades, clients in Burke County, Catawba County, and Caldwell County have trusted the Law Office of Lyndon R. Helton, PLLC, to provide results-driven representation that delivers results. Our founding attorney was born and raised in North Carolina and understands the challenges clients face following a truck collision.
Setting our law firm apart is our focus on seeing that our clients are financially restored for their physical and emotional damages. We take the time to listen to the stories of our clients because every detail matters when going up against large trucking groups. Trust our team of skilled litigators to secure the compensation you need to move forward. Contact our office today to learn how we can secure a fair settlement or court verdict.
