Truckers have a right to refuse to drive if they believe that the conditions are too dangerous.
It can be difficult to determine who is truly liable for semi-truck accidents in Michigan, especially if icy conditions make it difficult for everyone to drive safely. These “acts of nature” can make it seem like no one is to blame, and that crashes are unavoidable. However, the truth is that there is almost always some element of human error behind an accident, even if it is something very minor. Trucking companies also have a legal responsibility to prepare for adverse weather conditions and take steps to avoid potential accidents whenever possible.
If you have been injured in a Michigan semi-truck accident, it’s important to connect with a qualified personal injury attorney as soon as possible. These legal professionals can help you establish whether negligence led to your injuries, even if the accident was seemingly unavoidable due to adverse weather conditions. As you will see, trucking companies may be held liable under certain circumstances.
Icy Conditions Threaten Michigan Drivers
On November 3rd of 2021, it was reported that icy roads were proving to be a major concern for drivers in Michigan. Low temperatures during the previous night had led to numerous crashes throughout west Michigan. Many of these accidents were quite serious, and in many cases, cars flipped over and flew through the air after losing control. One particularly serious crash involved 11 different vehicles. Many of these crashes required victims to be hospitalized, and this prompted a representative of the Kent County Road Commission to urge drivers to remain cautious, especially on bridges and overpasses.
On November 2nd, three semi-trucks crashed in a single accident in Michigan near Schoolcraft. The crash resulted in serious traffic delays. It is not clear whether the icy roads were a factor.
A Trucking Company’s Responsibilities Under Adverse Conditions
Truckers have a right to refuse to drive if they believe that the conditions are too dangerous. If the trucker’s concerns are reasonable and legitimate, the company cannot force them to get back on the road. If they threaten to fire their drivers or retaliate against them in any way, they are breaking the law. This means that if you can prove that a trucking company forced or encouraged a driver to get behind the wheel despite their concerns about icy roads, they may be held liable for your injuries.
Enlist the Help of a Qualified Attorney Today
If you’ve been searching the Michigan area for a qualified, experienced personal injury attorney, look no further than Neumann Law Group. Over the years, we have helped numerous injury victims, including those who have been hurt by semi-truck accidents. We know that icy roads can be dangerous, but trucking companies still have a legal responsibility to prepare for these conditions. Book your consultation today, and we can strive towards a positive legal outcome together.
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