Box trucks are some of the most dangerous vehicles on the road because they are large but do not require a commercial driver’s license (CDL), so they are often driven by people with little experience operating vehicles of that size.
If you or a loved one were injured in an accident with a box truck caused by someone else’s negligence, you need an experienced box truck accident lawyer who understands the process of dealing with difficult insurance companies and businesses in New Mexico. The team at Tawney, Acosta & Chaparro P.C., can help you receive the compensation you deserve.
What Is a Box Truck?
A box truck may also be called a cube van, cube truck, box van, or even a rolling toaster. This type of truck is recognizable by its “box” like shape. It is a straight truck, which means that the bed and cab of the truck are on the same frame rather than separate pieces that attach together.
A box truck’s cabin is usually separate from the cargo space, though some vehicles do have access points. Most box trucks have roll-up doors, much like a garage door, and come with a standard pull-out ramp for loading and unloading cargo. Some trucks have a hydraulic lift.
Box trucks can vary in size, but are generally on the smaller side when it comes to commercial trucks and do not require a CDL to operate. They can range from 10 feet to 26 feet in length and 6 feet to 8 feet or more in height.
Box Truck Accident Statistics
When it comes to box truck accident statistics, the best indicators are the overall numbers for heavy truck accidents. In 2021, the New Mexico Department of Transportation reported 2,941 truck accidents across the state, which made up 7.2% of the total traffic accidents. There were 85 fatalities, 87 serious injuries, and 345 minor injuries.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) that in 2020, the majority of fatalities (83%) in large truck accidents were not occupants of the large truck. That means that collisions with large trucks are more dangerous for those in passenger vehicles, motorcycles, pedestrians, and others who are less protected. Interestingly, over 80% of all accidents involving large trucks occur on weekdays.
Common Factors in Box Truck Accidents
There are a lot of reasons that box truck accidents occur, but one of the biggest is the lack of driver experience. Some of the most common box trucks are moving vehicles like U-Haul and Rider rentals that are loaded by people who are not trained in cargo loading and driven by people who are not used to the nuances of driving a large truck. That being said, many companies do employ their own drivers who drive their company box trucks. Here are some general factors that apply to box truck accidents:
Size and Weight
A box truck can weigh between 12,500 to 33,000 pounds gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). This weight contributes to the amount of time it takes a box truck to stop and the severity of the collision impact.
Blind Spots
Though not as big as semi-trucks, box trucks do have significant bind spots, especially on the right side of the vehicle. This can make it difficult for box trucks to see other vehicles in their mirrors and safely merge or change lanes.
Shifting Cargo
Because the bed and cab of the truck are on the same frame, it is rare that a box truck would tip over due to shifting cargo, though not unheard of. It is likely that a shift could pull the vehicle suddenly and cause the driver to have to make quick driving maneuvers to compensate.
Fatigued Drivers
Unlike semi-trucks, box trucks do not have federal regulations regarding the amount of sleep and number of breaks drivers must take in order to stay alert. These vehicles may be used for daily transportation of goods from short distances, but they can also be used for cross-country moves or good transportation, which can mean a lot of exhausting hours on the road.
Mechanical Problems
It is often the responsibility of the box truck owner to maintain proper working conditions, including continual maintenance. Lack of maintenance or faulty parts can contribute to accidents such as brake or steering malfunctions.
Distractions
Unfortunately, distracted driving is a common problem for many vehicle operators as well as pedestrians. Whether sending a text, checking email, changing the radio station, or staring at something in the distance, distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents.
Who Is Liable for a Box Truck Accident?
Determining who is at fault for your box truck accident is a crucial step in filing your claim. An experienced New Mexico box truck accident lawyer can walk through the circumstances of your accident and conduct an independent investigation to gather evidence.
In some cases, the liable party may be the driver, but if the driver was performing job duties in a company box truck, their employer may be held liable for their actions. In other cases, the box truck may be rented by the driver, which can change who is liable depending on whether the accident was caused by driver error or a mechanical malfunction, or a part defect. There may even be situations where the roadway is not properly maintained, in which case the government municipality responsible for the maintenance may be held responsible. Your New Mexico box truck accident attorney can help you determine which parties are liable and the best legal strategy for your unique situation.
Choosing a Box Truck Accident Lawyer
At Tawney, Acosta & Chaparro P.C., we handle all types of personal injury cases but place much of our focus on trucking accidents, which includes box trucks. We know that box truck accidents can be complex, and we are committed to helping you receive the compensation you deserve. We are here to help you determine who is liable and how much your claim is worth. Let us negotiate on your behalf and ensure you receive a fair settlement or prepare for litigation if necessary. To schedule a free, no-obligation consultation, please call us today at 855-931-1345.