Watch Out for Runaway Trucks While Driving on I-70 in Colorado

 Posted on December 28, 2020 in Car Accident

In Colorado, I-70 and other major roads that traverse the Rocky Mountains present significant challenges for semi-truck drivers. Steep inclines and winding curves can make it easier to lose control of such large vehicles, and the winter months bring snow, ice, and hail that make driving conditions even more difficult. If you are sharing the road with truck drivers, you should be aware of the accident risk and know how to react if you are injured.

Colorado Roads Require Safety Precautions for Truck Drivers

Even with these challenges, truck drivers still have a responsibility to operate their vehicles in a way that protects the safety of others on the road. In order to safely navigate I-70 and other Colorado mountain highways, truck drivers should take extra care to maintain a safe speed and shift to a lower gear on steep downgrades. They should also be sure that their vehicles have fully functioning brakes, and that they know how to use them safely to prevent them from overheating and failing. Colorado has installed runaway truck ramps for drivers who do lose control of their vehicles, and the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) has recently partnered with other state organizations to better educate, prepare, and alert truck drivers of hazards and how to respond to them.

Accidents Involving Runaway Trucks

Runaway truck accidents can be especially serious due to the dangerous terrain and the high speed at which the truck is traveling. If you are driving in the mountains, you should give semi-trucks a wide berth whenever possible to reduce your risk of getting into an accident. If you are injured, you should work with an experienced personal injury attorney who can help you recover compensation for your damages.

A runaway truck crash is often considered the fault of the truck driver, whether due to driver error, speeding or reckless driving, a failure to properly inspect the brakes before driving, or some other cause. However, the company that employs the driver may also be at fault if the truck was not properly maintained. We can help you gather evidence, including driving, inspection, and maintenance records, that allows us to identify all negligent parties and build a strong case to present in settlement negotiations or a trial.

Contact a Larimer County Truck Accident Lawyer

Truck accidents are all too common in Colorado, and winter can be one of the most dangerous times of the year due to weather conditions and the mountainous terrain. If you are injured in a truck crash, the attorneys at Hoggatt Injury Law will help you pursue fair compensation to help pay for your damages. Call an experienced Fort Collins personal injury attorney today at 970-225-2190 to arrange a free consultation.

Source:

https://cdllife.com/2020/video-shows-truckers-driving-the-i-70-mountain-corridor-how-to-arrive-alive/