Semi-Truck Accident Statistics
Semi-truck accidents are a growing concern on our roads today. These vehicular incidents involving large commercial trucks, also known as tractor-trailers or big rigs, can have devastating consequences for all parties involved. Truck driver accidents can cause serious injuries and death, leaving families devastated.
Semi-Truck Accident Statistics
In order to understand the magnitude of this issue and its impact on road safety, it is important to examine semi-truck accident statistics. This allows us to gain insight into key trends and patterns surrounding these accidents, identifying potential areas for improvement to prevent future occurrences, and ensure the well-being of drivers, passengers, bicyclists, and pedestrians.
According to the IIHS:
- 4,764 people died in semi-truck accidents in 2022
- The number of deaths in semi-truck accidents was 2% higher in 2022 than in 2021
- Truck occupant deaths accounted for 17% of truck driver accident fatalities
- 66% of the fatalities were occupants of cars and passenger vehicles
- Motorcyclist, bicyclist, and pedestrian deaths amounted to 16%
- The number of deaths was 51% higher in 2022 than in 2009
- The number of truck occupant deaths was 83% higher than in 2009
- 35% of truck accidents occur on interstates and freeways
- 49% of deaths from semi-truck accidents occur on major roads other than interstates and freeways
- Only 16% of fatal accidents occurred on minor roads
- 63% of semi-truck accidents occur between 6 a.m. and 9 p.m.
- 34% of truck crashes occurred on Saturday and Sunday
- 50% of truck occupant deaths occurred from crashes where the semi-truck rolled over
- 96% of occupants in passenger vehicles were killed in two-vehicle crashes involving a passenger vehicle and a semi-truck
How Many Semi-Truck Drivers Are There In The u.s.?
According to the American Trucking Association, 3.55 million truck drivers were employed in the U.S. in 2023, an increase of 0.3% from 2022. An additional 8.5 million people work in the trucking industry. There are more trucks on the road than ever before, but the fatality rate per mile driven has declined significantly since 1975, when it was 3.39, and in 2022, it was 0.94.
How Many Truckers Die Each Year?
Approximately 625 truckers die each year. Of the nearly 4,764 people who lose their lives each year in crashes involving trucks, 17% of victims are in the truck at the time of the accident. A trucker is most likely to die in an accident if the accident involves two or more trucks.
Colorado Semi-Truck Accident Statistics
In the State of Colorado, 100 fatal accidents involving semi-trucks occurred in 2022. Those crashes represent 9.2% of all fatal accidents in Colorado. By comparison, there were 305 fatal accidents involving passenger vehicles, 147 fatal accidents involving motorcycles, and 514 fatal accidents involving light trucks.
Colorado Attorneys for Semi-Truck Accident Claims
Being involved in a semi-truck accident in Colorado can have life-altering effects for the victim and their loved ones. If they are fortunate to survive the crash, the victim can experience catastrophic injuries, such as:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal cord injuries
- Partial or complete paralysis
- Loss of limbs
- Burn injuries
- Internal organ injuries
Catastrophic injuries can result in cognitive problems and limited mobility. The extent of their injuries can significantly impact earning capabilities, result in changes to their home environment, and require ongoing care and help from others.
In the unfortunate event where someone dies as a result of a truck crash, the initial shock can leave surviving family members devastated and unsure about their future. It can be overwhelming and confusing to know what to do or where to get help.
At Bachus & Schanker, our Elite Litigation Group specifically handles catastrophic injury and wrongful death claims.
We understand the impacts such injuries can have on the victim and their families. In addition to the dedicated support and guidance you receive from our truck accident lawyers and your legal team, you have access to our Victim’s Advocates team.
We are the only law firm that provides access to this special group of professionals who provide added support, guidance, and assistance during this difficult time, ensuring your rights are protected. They serve as a liaison between you and the prosecutor’s office in cases where you can bring criminal charges against the responsible party in addition to civil charges.
Attorney Kyle Bachus knows first-hand what it is like to experience the loss of a loved one from a truck accident, and the impacts it can have on you and your family. Our law firm is here to help guide you through every step of the process from your initial, free consultation to receiving your settlement.
We have multiple law offices across Colorado in:
- Denver
- Aurora
- Englewood
- Fort Collins
- Colorado Springs
- Broomfield
- Boulder
We also have an office in Cheyenne, WY, to help semi-truck accident victims in Wyoming. Our law firm has experience handling all types of common truck accident cases, including:
- Jackknife accidents
- Truck rollovers
- Rear-end collisions
- Side collisions
- Driving under the influence
- Speeding
- Reckless driving
- Distracted driving
- Drowsy driving
- Head-on collision accidents
- Tire blowout accidents
- Wide turn accidents
- Brake failure accidents
If you or a loved one has been involved in a semi-truck accident in Denver, don’t wait to seek the representation and compensation you deserve. Bachus & Schanker specialize in semi-truck accident claims. Our experienced legal team will fight tirelessly for your rights, and guide you through the complex legal process to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
