If you’ve been injured in a truck accident in British Columbia, your injuries may be putting your life on hold. You could be worrying about affording medical bills or missing work when you should be resting and recovering. Filing accident reports and injury claim documents with insurance companies can be stressful. We are here to help you understand the process and your options.
Accident expenses to consider
We can help you recovery the following damages:
- Medical Expenses
- Lost Wages
- Loss of Earnings
- Pain & Suffering
- Punitive Damages
Vancouver Truck Accident Statistics
The Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC) tracks different kinds of crashes in British Columbia, including heavy vehicles. The ICBC classifies heavy vehicles as having a vehicle weight that’s greater than or equal to 10,900 kg.
- There were 15,000 incidents in 2016.
- 3,300 people were injured.
- There were 56 fatalities.
The average crashes from 2012-2016 show that there were about 13,000 incidents, 3,200 injured victims, and 58 fatalities.
On Vancouver Island, there were 1,300 incidents in 2016. 220 people were injured and 7 people lost their lives. The five year average from 2012-2016 is 1,100 incidents, 230 injuries, and 5 fatalities.
Since the ICBC handles truck accident liability claims, it will investigate your claim and the other party’s claim. While the ICBC will examine both sides of the claim, this doesn’t guarantee that they’re prioritizing your rights. A Wishart Vancouver truck accident lawyer will make sure your rights are protected and upheld.
What Causes British Columbia Truck Accidents?
The majority of truck accidents are caused by:
- Speeding. Heavy trucks require more time to slow down than other vehicles. So, a speeding truck runs the risk of travelling too close behind other vehicles. Sudden stops can result in rear end impacts. Speeding is the most common reason for truck roll overs or running off the road on tight corners.
- Distracted Driving. Cell phones are constantly distracting drivers. When a driver is distracted they can’t properly react to sudden changes on the road.
- Truck Driver Fatigue. Truck drivers have long hours and work under strict deadlines. Fatigued drivers can swerve into other lanes, and have reaction times similar to being impaired behind the wheel. Drivers are required by law to keep driver log books. These books will be the first thing requested at an accident by accident investigators.
- Mechanical Failure. There could be an issue with the steering, brakes and tires. Trucking companies are required to maintain their trucks and report the conditions on their daily truck inspection reports. It is the company’s requirement to fix these issues or take a vehicle off the road until the necessary repairs are completed and inspected. A truck inspection report must be kept on file for 2 years and can be requested following an accident.
At Wishart Brain & Spine Law, we thoroughly investigate the accident records to determine cause and prove liability or negligence.
Truck Accident Injuries
Accidents involving semi-trucks are often more severe. Some of these injuries could have permanent damage or consequences. Recovering from severe injuries takes a long time and involves doctors, specialists and physiotherapists.
Types of Injuries Sustained in Truck Accidents
- Brain and Head Injuries
- Burns
- Back and Spinal Cord Injuries
- Broken Bones
- Fatalities
Get Help from a Vancouver Truck Accident Lawyer
Our Vancouver truck accident lawyers at Wishart Brain & Spine Law are experienced and compassionate people who will do everything to help you.
Our lawyers will negotiate a settlement that will ensure that will cover future expenses, cost of living and the best possible recovery. Let us guide you through it.
Contact us today at 1-855-WISHART to speak with on out truck accident lawyers. Your first consultation is free.
