Semi-Trucks, Colorado Chain Laws, and Injury Accidents

 Posted on December 16, 2024 in Truck Accidents

Although Denver typically does not see as much snow as other nearby areas, the city’s annual snowfall averages 57 inches. The Colorado Department of Transportation implements chain laws during inclement weather to reduce the risk of auto collisions, with special requirements for larger vehicles, including tractor-trailers.

If a truck caused an accident that injured you, a determined Colorado personal injury attorney can help you collect the compensation you deserve.

Large Vehicle Chain Laws in Colorado

Semis carrying goods need to deliver them regardless of road conditions. These enormous trucks can cause severe injuries in ideal conditions, but snowy and icy roads compound the danger. Colorado recently updated chain laws for larger commercial vehicles, requiring all drivers to carry chains or alternative traction devices for four drive tires from September 1 until May 31 when driving in the state. For some roads, these vehicles must utilize ATDs or chains regardless of weather conditions.

Colorado Wintertime Truck Crashes

Tractor-trailers can be challenging to maneuver on clear, dry roads. Road surfaces covered with ice and snow can lead to even more issues, including:

• Uneven weight distribution and shifting cargo

• Increasing the distance a truck requires to stop, which is already significantly longer than passenger vehicles

• Slipping and poor handling in curves and tight turns

• Steering difficulties with frozen roadway ruts

• Controlling climbs and descents on hills

• Reduced traction

• Uncontrollable sliding

Investigations for wintry truck crashes are more complex because there are several additional potential causes.

How Your Attorney Can Help After Your Colorado Truck Accident

Before you can file an insurance claim, you have to identify the at-fault party or parties. For winter truck accidents, the list of potentially liable parties includes:

• Drivers: lack of training, inexperience, moving violations

• Trucking companies: failing to provide the necessary ATDs or chains, requiring drivers to continue despite extremely unsafe roads

• Chain or ATD designers and manufacturers: design or manufacturing flaws that prevent the safety device from working correctly

• Cargo loaders: failing to secure or distribute loads properly

• Other drivers: driving errors that leave trucks without enough time or space to avoid a collision

After your lawyer investigates to determine the causes of your crash, we will process all evidence and documents, assess your damages, keep insurance companies from contacting you directly, and work toward securing maximum compensation for you. We will keep you updated, but you can trust us to handle your case carefully.

Consult an Experienced Denver, CO Truck Accident Lawyer

No matter what time of year, you need a competent attorney handling your truck accident case if you want the best results. Call The Gold Law Firm at 303-694-4653 or contact us online to discuss your case with one of our skilled Denver, CO personal injury attorneys today. Your initial consultation is free of charge.