On Friday morning, a tractor trailer overturned on top of a car and a van. According to WLOS ABC News Channel 13, the incident happened sometime before 8:00 a.m., on Wiggins Road, Off Interstate 40 in Buncombe County. Apparently, the brakes went out on the big rig as the driver was coming down the off-ramp for Wiggins Road. In an effort to avoid oncoming traffic, the truck driver swerved and his rig overturned. It landed on a sedan and a Mountain Mobility van.

Careless and Reckless Truck Driving

Thankfully, no major injuries were reported. The rig was hauling 40,000 pounds of cotton at the time of the crash, and crews spent hours clearing the scene, so the commercial truck could be moved. WLOS ABC News Channel 13 also reports that the truck driver, Jonathan Baxley of High Point, has been charged with careless and reckless driving.

Trucking Industry Regulations

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is the agency tasked with regulating the commercial trucking industry. Because these vehicles are so much larger and heavier than traditional passenger occupant vehicles, drivers and trucking company owners have an additional set of rules and regulations to follow to keep roadways safe.

U.S. Truck Crash Statistics

  • In 2013, 4,186 large trucks and buses were involved in fatal crashes.
  • From 2012 to 2013, per vehicle mile travelled (VMT) by large trucks increased by 2.2 percent.
  • In 2013, 73,000 large trucks were involved injury crashes.
  • In 2013, 265,000 large trucks were involved in property damage only crashes.

What to do After a Truck Accident in Asheville

Since truck accidents often require additional and lengthy investigative efforts, it’s critical to speak with a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible after your accident. Your lawyer can stay on top of official investigative developments and be your advocate as you work on getting back to your normal life.

If you have been injured or if you have lost a loved on in a truck accident in Asheville or the surrounding communities, contact the experienced legal team at Davis Law Group, P.A. at 888-773-8388 for an immediate free consultation.