On Monday afternoon, a semi truck crashed on US-70 near Swannanoa. According to WLOS ABC News Channel 13, the incident happened at about 3:40 p.m. near Avery Wood Drive, between Swannanoa and Black Mountain. Apparently, the truck driver tried to speed up in an attempt to avoid a falling tree. Unable to miss the tree, the large tractor trailer struck the downed
Traffic Backed Up on US-70
The roadway was closed as crews worked the scene, and traffic was backed up in both directions. Thankfully, no other automobiles were involved in this big rig crash, but there’s no word on whether or not the truck driver sustained any injuries in the crash or what his current condition is.
Tractor Trailer Crashes in Asheville
Crashes involving semi trucks can be incredibly devastating for drivers and passengers in smaller passenger occupant vehicles. Commercial trucks are much larger and heavier than light cars and trucks. They don’t stop on a dime, and sometimes, they carry hazardous and flammable materials. Crashes involving large trucks are also complicated from a legal standpoint. Truck drivers and commercial trucking agencies have additional rules and regulations to follow for safe roadway operation.
Commercial Trucking Safety Regulations
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is the agency tasked with regulating the trucking industry. Drivers have to comply with hours of service laws, certain medical requirements and strict drug and alcohol laws. Tractor trailer drivers owe a duty of safety to other roadway users. Their vehicles are simply too big for there to be any room for error. If you’ve been involved in a crash involving a semi truck, you’re in for a lengthy investigative process that involves multiple investigating agencies. Due to the additional regulations, semi truck accident cases are much more complex than traditional car accident cases.
After a Semi Truck Crash
After any kind of truck crash, you need to take care of your health first. Once your injuries have been medically evaluated and treated, your next priority needs to be contacting a skilled personal injury lawyer with truck accident experience. Contact the team at Davis Law Group, P.A. today at 888-773-8388 for a free case consultation.