The Dangers of Log Trucks in Alabama

Trucks represent a serious hazard for a number of reasons. First of all, these vehicles and heavy and large. This means that they’re not as easy to maneuver, and they take longer to safely come to a complete stop. Their size and weight also makes them particularly dangerous when colliding with smaller, lighter cars. In addition, trucks can be quite dangerous because of the cargo they carry. While there are many examples of dangerous cargo, logs can represent an especially worrying risk for drivers in Alabama.

Alabama’s Logging Industry

Alabama has the second-largest timberland base in the entire nation, and the Heart of Dixie is home to 23 million acres of forested areas. In addition, forestry is the source of Alabama’s largest manufacturing industry, raking in approximately $4 billion per year. With these facts in mind, it should come as no surprise that a log truck is a common sight on the roads of Mobile or Daphne.

Man Killed in Crash with Log Truck in Blount County

In March of 2021, it was reported that a man had lost his life due to a collision with a log truck in Blount County. The driver struck the rear of the log truck on Interstate 65 and was killed instantly. This is just one example of a fatality involving a log truck in Alabama, and there are many others.

Why Are Log Trucks So Dangerous?

Log trucks represent a significant danger for a number of reasons. On the one hand, these trucks are subject to the same general hazards posed by any truck. These include distracted or intoxicated drivers, fatigued drivers, speeding, and other risk factors based on human error.

On the other hand, log trucks have to worry about plenty of additional hazards as well. Perhaps one of the most considerable hazards associated with these vehicles is improper loading. Logs are a unique type of cargo, and it’s sometimes difficult to judge their weight. Many of the logs might not be completely straight. This makes it very difficult to balance the load properly. Unbalanced loads can make it more difficult for a driver to maintain control of the vehicle. They may also increase the chance of rollovers.

When most people think of an accident involving a log truck, they probably picture the logs coming loose and rolling across the road. This is certainly a possibility, especially if the logs aren’t secured properly. These heavy logs can crush smaller cars and cause a serious amount of injury and carnage.

Finally, the logs may hang over the edge of the truck, making it difficult for other drivers to judge distances. These overhanging logs should always be properly flagged, but sometimes this vital step is not taken.

Can I Get Compensation for a Log Truck Injury?

If you’ve been involved in a log truck crash, you stand a strong chance of getting compensation for your injury. Reach out to a qualified personal injury attorney in Alabama today, and you can pursue justice and hold negligent parties accountable.