Does Denver’s High Altitude Contribute to Truck Crashes?

 Posted on September 17, 2024 in Truck Accidents

Denver’s altitude takes getting used to. For those of us living in the mile-high city, our bodies are used to lower oxygen levels. Truckers who drive to or through the state may experience various altitude-related effects, and their trucks may also be affected.

How can altitude impair drivers? Why does it matter what caused your truck collision? If you are injured in a truck accident, you may be eligible for compensation, and the dedicated attorneys at The Gold Law Firm can help.

What Do High Altitudes Affect Drivers and Vehicles?

When you think of reasons for truck accidents, you probably do not consider the effects of altitude. At Denver’s altitude of one mile above sea level, the body’s oxygen consumption ability drops by 10 percent. The unacclimated can experience altitude sickness that may have symptoms including:

• Nausea and vomiting

• Shortness of breath

• Headaches

• Lightheadedness

• Sluggishness

• Fatigue

• Confusion

• Impaired coordination

These and other symptoms can impair a trucker’s ability to drive safely, potentially leading to collisions. Not only might drivers be impaired, but their trucks’ performance might also be impacted.

Higher altitudes can reduce tire pressure, which may result in blowouts or steering control issues. In addition, lower air density can cause engine performance problems, making trucks more challenging to maneuver. Particularly on steep grades, lack of truck control combined with driver impairment is a recipe for disaster.

Why Does the Cause of Your Truck Accident Matter?

If you sustain injuries in a truck collision, filing an insurance claim against the at-fault party is your first step toward getting a settlement. However, the claims process is much more complex than asking for money and receiving a fair amount of compensation.

You must investigate your crash to determine how and why it happened, gathering evidence to prove who is at fault. There are several potentially liable parties in truck accidents, including:

• The driver

• The trucking company

• The truck’s owner or leasing company

• Truck maintenance companies

• Parts manufacturers

• Cargo loaders

If poorly maintained roads contributed to your crash, the government agency responsible for that stretch of roads may also share liability. Without evidence that establishes fault, you cannot expect to receive a settlement. Even then, the liable insurance companies will likely try to avoid paying you fairly.

When you choose The Gold Law Firm, your legal team will investigate your crash, determine liability, and pursue the highest possible amount of compensation on your behalf.

How Much Will Your Settlement Be?

All accidents are different, and your settlement amount depends on case-specific factors. Truck crashes often cause severe and catastrophic injuries, such as multiple fractures, organ damage, spinal cord or brain injuries, amputations, and concussions. Your accident probably also resulted in pain and suffering and other losses that affect your quality of life. Your settlement might include damages for losses such as:

• Medical treatment costs

• Lost wages

• Property damage

• PTSD

• Losing the ability to enjoy life

• Disability

We cannot tell you how much your settlement might be until we begin working on your case. However, your attorney from The Gold Law Firm will calculate your damages carefully and fight to ensure that you get the amount you deserve.

Contact Our Experienced Denver, CO Truck Accident Lawyers

Truck accident claims are more challenging than most, and you need a skilled lawyer from The Gold Law Firm by your side to protect your best interests. Call us at 303-694-4653 for your free consultation with our dedicated Denver, CO personal injury attorneys.