Tanker Truck Accidents

Maryland Truck Accident Lawyers

Any type of large commercial vehicle can cause serious damage in an accident, but tanker trucks that carry flammable and hazardous materials frequently result in catastrophic injury or death. In fact, over 70% of tanker trucks carry hazardous cargo that can cause explosions or fire. Tanker truck accident victims often suffer severe burns that lead to other long-term personal injuries.

Common Causes of Tanker Truck Accidents

Since many tanker trucks carry liquid cargo, their loads need to be carefully balanced to avoid causing accidents. For example, if a tanker truck’s load is only three-quarters full, the tanker can easily become unstable. When a tanker starts to roll, the liquid load will slosh around, hastening the truck’s rollover momentum and heightening the odds of serious injuries occurring.

Other common causes of tanker truck accidents include:

• Driver fatigue
• Driver inexperience
• Improper maintenance
• Equipment failure
• Inadequate safety policies

Studies show that driver fatigue and negligence contribute to one out of every five tanker truck rollover accidents.

Special Regulations for Tanker Trucks

Because of the added risk involved, this area of the trucking industry is heavily regulated not only by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), but also the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Drivers of tanker trucks that carry hazardous materials need to go through special training and rigorous testing – beyond the requirements for a regular commercial license.

Additionally, tanker trucks that carry toxic or flammable cargo can only be driven on certain roads and in certain areas. If a driver neglects these regulations, or if a trucking company allows an inadequately-trained driver behind the wheel of a tanker truck, both parties can be held responsible for negligence.

Our Maryland truck accident lawyers at Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. are familiar with the many unique factors involved in tanker truck accidents. We will carefully evaluate the circumstances surrounding your accident to ensure all responsible parties are held accountable.

If you have been a victim of a tanker truck accident in Maryland, make sure you are getting the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a free initial consultation. We will uncover the facts behind your accident and pursue justice and compensation on your behalf.