Truck Accidents Involving Hazardous Materials
Truck accidents are almost always considered serious crashes, but when a large commercial truck is hauling hazardous materials the damage caused by the accident can be even more acute. Along with injuries caused by the impact of the crash, victims can suffer additional harm from the contents of the truck. The experienced truck accident attorneys at Mitch Grissim & Associates in Nashville have represented victims in all types of truck accident cases and have the skill to get the full compensation you and your loved ones deserve after suffering harm in a truck accident carrying dangerous materials. Call or contact us today to schedule a free case evaluation.
Hazardous Materials Carried by Trucks
Large commercial trucks that carry dangerous or hazardous materials are often referred to as tanker trucks. A tanker is a type of trailer that holds hazardous cargo, as opposed to the trailers usually seen on commercial trucks that carry tangible items like groceries, furniture, clothing, and more. Tanker trucks often carry hazardous materials like oil, gasoline, and corrosive chemicals. If not completely full, this cargo can slosh around in the trailer and throw off the truck’s balance. A shift in the truck’s center of gravity can quickly cause an accident where victims are not only hurt by the impact of this large vehicle, but also by the dangerous cargo that can spill in the crash.
Injuries Caused by Hazardous Materials
The types and extent of injuries caused by a truck hauling hazardous materials is often dictated by what dangerous cargo is being transported. Corrosive chemicals can cause severe burns, organ failure, respiratory damage, blindness, and death. Cargo like oil and gasoline can likewise cause or intensify injuries in a truck accident if a victim comes into contact with these materials. Hazardous materials are also often flammable and can cause explosions or fires that can additionally contribute to the extent of the injuries suffered by victims in this type of crash. Other common injuries seen in truck accidents carrying hazardous materials include the following:
- Head injuries
- Facial trauma
- Neck injuries
- Broken bones
- Spinal cord injuries
- Internal organ damage
- Internal bleeding
- Amputation injuries
- Burns
- Lacerations
- Paralysis
- Death
Protection Against the Truck’s Insurance Company
Trucking companies that deal in transporting hazardous materials typically have increased insurance policies and a fleet of insurance adjusters prepared to handle any claims. It is common practice to ask victims of truck accidents involving hazardous materials for their statement on the accident within hours or days of the crash. When you hire an experienced truck accident attorney, you are protected from the insurer’s predatory tactics to undermine the amount of compensation you deserve after a crash.
Talk to Our Office Now
Truck accidents involving hazardous materials can have long-lasting and permanent ramifications for the victims involved, but you do not have to shoulder the burden of a legal case on your own. Contact us today at Mitch Grissim & Associates to speak with a knowledgeable Nashville truck accident attorney about your claim and schedule a free case consultation.
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