You might drive defensively, but its often the "other driver" you have to worry about. When you add a semi-truck into the mix, things can and have proven to be fatal. Thousands of families are affected each year by the mistakes made by semi-truck drivers who fall asleep at the wheel or do not follow regulations. In Southern California, truck accidents are common occurrences.

One in 10 Killed in Large Truck Accidents
In 2009, 3,380 people were killed in large truck crashes. Though this is an improvement from 2008, there is still much progress to be made. Out of all those who lose their lives in car accidents, one in ten is killed by a collision with a large truck. Consider this: fatalities caused by large truck accidents account for 10% of the annual highway death toll, yet only 4% of the registered vehicle population are semi-trucks.

The Numbers Directly Reflect the Dangers
Many organizations have banded together to bring improvement to these numbers and to see lives saved. Organizations, like Parents against Tired Truckers (P.A.T.T.) and Citizens for Reliable and Safety Highways (C.R.A.S.H.), have been working together for years to reduce the number of fatalities. Though there was a 20% decrease in fatalities in 2009, those organizations are still aiming to see improvements in the laws. Some of these improvements include more compliance reviews and increased penalties for violations.

What Happens When You Are Hurt?
Despite the efforts and initiatives to reduce the number of fatalities caused by truckers, the risk is still existent. Drivers must always be cautious on the road, aware of the unfortunate possibilities that could take place. If you find yourself a victim of a large truck accident, you could be entitled to compensation. Contact a San Bernardino truck accident attorney at Steinberg Injury Lawyers Injury Lawyers at (800) 989-6385 for a free case evaluation.

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