Riding Through Fog and Mist: Understanding Trucking Accidents in Low Visibility 

by Staff Blogger | October 20th, 2023

Every driver is familiar with the worrying sensation of watching the world outside your car window blur into a cloud of fog and mist. Driving in low-visibility situations is problematic, but doing so while sharing the road with large commercial trucks can make it even worse.

Understanding Low Visibility

Low visibility refers to weather conditions that make it harder for drivers to navigate safely by reducing the distance they can see. Low visibility can be a factor in trucking accidents, and understanding the causes and effects is critical to preventing them.

Low Visibility Causes

  • Fog, heavy rain, wind-blown snow, dust, and smoke can reduce visibility.
  • The absence of a rear window and insufficient reflectors might increase the size of a truck’s blind area.
  • Other factors, like driver fatigue, can mitigate low visibility.

Approximately 38,700 car accidents occur annually due to fog alone, resulting in over 600 deaths and over 16,300 injuries. According to a study conducted in the Shanghai River-Crossing Tunnel, snowy or icy road conditions and rain considerably enhance the likelihood of a fatal or incapacitating injury in truck-involved crashes.

Accidents involving big trucks in limited visibility conditions can lead to serious injuries to everyone involved. Low-visibility accidents involving large trucks can even result in significant economic and societal ramifications, such as the costs of repairing and maintaining damaged vehicles and the disruptions resulting in supply chain delays.

Low Visibility Prevention and Mitigation

  • To help reduce accidents caused by fog or severe rain, truck companies and their drivers must obey federal standards on visibility.
  • The correct use of headlights and taillights can improve visibility.
  • Improved driver education and training, vehicle technology, and infrastructure can all contribute to reducing poor visibility incidents.

Filing a Trucking Accident Legal Claim

Making a legal claim after a trucking accident is complicated. The steps outlined below will assist you in understanding the process. With the right personal injury lawyer, Sacramento residents can rest assured that their case is handled empathetically and professionally.

1. Seek Medical Attention Right Away

The most important thing to focus on after a truck collision is your health and safety. Pursue medical assistance for any injuries, no matter how minor they appear to be. Your well-being comes first.

2. Investigation and Evidence Gathering

Gathering evidence is critical to developing a compelling case. Here’s what you should do:

  • Photograph the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, and any pertinent signage.
  • Collect witness accounts and contact information from people who witnessed the accident.
  • Obtain a copy of the police report, which provides essential information regarding the accident.
  • Keep any physical evidence, such as damaged vehicles or debris, should it be required for your case.

3. Request Compensation

  • Contact a skilled Sacramento truck accident lawyer to assist you in filing a claim.
  • Lawyers have extensive experience dealing with these situations and will guide you through the procedure.
  • Give your attorney all the evidence you have gathered to enable them to assess your case’s strength and determine the amount of compensation you are entitled to.

4. Taking Part in Settlement Negotiations

  • Your attorney will initiate negotiations with the insurance provider. 
  • An attorney will try to reach a reasonable settlement to cover your medical bills, property damage, lost wages, and other related damages.
  • If negotiations fail, your lawyer will file a lawsuit on your behalf.

5. Filing a Lawsuit

  • Your attorney will begin filing a lawsuit if a settlement cannot be reached.
  • The case will be filed in the proper court, and a copy of the complaint will be served on the party responsible for the accident.
  • The defendant will respond to the complaint and the claims leveled against them.

6. Discovery

  • Both sides will exchange case-related data and evidence throughout the discovery stage of the legal process.
  • Depositions are recorded in which witnesses and parties are questioned under oath.
  • Expert witnesses are asked to testify and offer their professional perspectives on the case.

7. Trial

  • The case will go to trial if a settlement cannot be reached.
  • A judge or jury will hear evidence and arguments from both parties.
  • Before finalizing the matter, the judge or jury will carefully analyze the evidence and arguments provided.

Have you or a loved one been involved in a trucking accident in low visibility and are seeking compensation? Don’t navigate this challenging journey alone. Contact Berg Injury Lawyers today for expert legal assistance.