Although a vast majority of farm truck accidents occur in Midwestern states, where agriculture is simply a way of life, California is not immune to them. In fact, Southern California has many farms, both large and small, that require the use of public roads by farm equipment. Crashes involving both farm trucks and motor vehicles are happening more frequently, and it’s important to know the why and where of it as well as what is contributing to the increase.
Why Farm Truck Accidents Are Frequent
There are many contributing factors to the rise in accidents involving passenger vehicles and farm trucks. The biggest reason is farm trucks are now much bigger than they used to be. Farms do this to maximize efficiency, but it can be hazardous to other motor vehicles.
More traffic and higher speeds on rural roads are two additional factors. As more and more people are moving out of the bigger cities of the greater LA area and into smaller, quieter neighborhoods like those in the Central Valley, two-lane roads now see much more traffic. This will increase the likelihood of being involved in a farm truck accident. Due to the increase in population, these two-lane roads are also being upgraded, and many speed limits are being raised. Higher speeds result in a greater likelihood you will be involved in an accident, no matter the vehicle type.
Where Farm Truck Accidents are Occurring
You might think Southern California farm truck accidents are only common in rural areas. A study of midwestern states concluded that nearly 30 percent of these types of accidents are in more populated areas. It’s reasonable to assume that in Southern California, where even rural areas have greater populations, this number may be higher.
There are certain road conditions and travel areas that are likely to see an increase in farm truck accidents, including curvy roads, roads that are narrow, areas with higher speed limits or traffic rates, and roads that lead to and from the farms and the markets.
Types of Injuries
While the possible injuries sustained rely mostly on the type of farm equipment and type of motor vehicle, some types of injuries are more common than others. Many farm truck accidents are rear end collisions, due to the slow travel of the farm truck. While these may not be the fault of the truck driver, they result in the most fatalities.
More common accidents can result in everything from minor scrapes and bruises to broken bones, life-threatening concussions and immediate death. As you can see, there is a broad range of possible injuries.
Legal Representation
The areas of Fresno, Visalia, Bakersfield and Glendale see their fair share of farm truck accidents. If you’ve been injured in an accident involving a farm truck, it’s important to seek legal representation, so you can get the medical treatment you need as well as maintain your standard of living. The Maison Law Firm may be able to help you receive compensation for your injuries. Martin Gasparian is one of the most experienced personal injury lawyers in the Central Valley. You deserve the best.
