Semi-trucks and other large commercial vehicles are a common sight on American highways, transporting billions of pounds of cargo from coast to coast each year. While statistically safer than other types of vehicles, big rigs have the potential to cause significant injury and damage when they are involved in accidents. As a result, both state and federal law requires those who drive these vehicles to undergo specialized training and obtain a commercial driver’s license, or CDL. Even with these regulations, negligent truck drivers continue to be involved in accidents, sometimes resulting in serious injuries with extensive complications. Fortunately for victims, Pennsylvania law allows those injured by negligent truck drivers to recover for their injuries by filing a personal injury claim.
Although truck drivers are specialized professionals, they are not immune from the stresses of driving and life in general that all of us experience. We all understand that issues such as running late or personal problems can affect the way a person drives, sometimes in ways that puts other people at risk. Aggressive driving is a serious problem and injuries thousands of people every year, and can be particularly dangerous when the driver is in control of a massive 80,000 pound semi-truck. It is important for motorists to be able to recognize aggressive driving and take appropriate steps to avoid problem drivers. Some of the more common ways in which people drive aggressively include:
- Speeding
- Tailgating
- Sudden stops
- Offensive gestures
- Flashing high beams
There are many other ways in which a truck driver may drive aggressively, many of which could expose the driver to legal liability in the event of an accident. After a truck accident that you believe may have been the result of an aggressive truck driver, be sure to undergo a thorough medical evaluation conducted by a professional and contact a Philadelphia personal injury attorney as soon as possible.