Accident on Elkhorn Boulevard Results in Minor Injuries
A traffic collision involving a utility pickup and a U-Haul moving truck occurred in North Highlands on May 13 that resulted in minor injuries. The accident was reported along Elkhorn Boulevard near the intersection with Cantel Way around 7:38 a.m. At least one person involved in the accident had a complaint of pain, according to the incident report filed by the California Highway Patrol (CHP).
Investigation Underway to Determine Cause of Traffic Collision
It is unknown whether that person was treated at the scene or transported to a hospital for more evaluation. Both vehicles were found on the right-hand side of the roadway and were not blocking traffic. An investigation is underway by the CHP to determine how the accident occurred and assign fault.
Involvement of Rental Vehicles in Accidents
Rental trucks like U-Hauls are fairly common to see on the road. Renting a U-Haul can be convenient and cost-effective when it comes to moving and transporting goods. In the event that a U-Haul accident occurs, the following may be responsible if an injury happens to others:
- If a negligent act, such as speeding or distracted driving, was committed by the driver of the U-Haul rental truck, the motorist could be held responsible. Safemove and Safemove Plus insurance are chosen by many people who rent a U-Haul, so they have coverage in the event of a traffic collision.
- U-Haul may be held liable if the vehicle became involved in a traffic collision due to lack of maintenance, such as faulty brakes, a blown tire or other problems that would have been prevented had the vehicle been properly maintained.
- There are times when the person renting the U-Haul can make both themself and the company responsible in the event of an accident. This occurs when the company rents the truck to someone who is intoxicated, unlicensed or driving on a license that has been suspended and when the vehicle has been overloaded, leading to a traffic accident.
Factors Contributing to U-Haul Accidents
Accidents involving U-Haul trucks occur for a variety of reasons, including:
- Speeding: U-Haul truck accidents are sometimes the result of speeding. Furthermore, if the truck’s cargo is not adequately secured, speeding may make it more difficult to avoid an accident or maintain control of the vehicle.
- Fatigue: Most people are fatigued by moving, and this leads to sleepless nights and tiredness from the labor of loading the truck. Either of these can cause a traffic collision involving the rental truck.
- Distracted driving: Distracted driving occurs when the driver uses the GPS or texts or talks on the cell phone while driving. Using the GPS or talking on the phone while driving could cause an accident.
- Drunk driving: A driver who is intoxicated cannot safely handle a big truck, which can lead to a traffic collision.
- Untrained drivers: Drivers who are untrained in handling a large truck can rent a U-Haul just about anywhere as long as they have a license. Many U-Haul drivers are not equipped to handle the vehicle and underestimate the space they require for safe driving.
- Failure to yield: Many U-Haul drivers believe that others must wait for their larger, harder-to-maneuver vehicle. This is not true. All drivers must obey the law.
- Not checking the route beforehand: When unfamiliar with the road, drivers may have problems reaching their destination without running into trouble.
- Truck defects: The rental company must inspect the vehicle before it is rented to ensure the brakes, tires, steering and other parts are in good condition.
Personal Injury Lawyer in North Highlands
My name is Ed Smith, and I am a North Highlands personal injury. For more information about filing a claim for compensation if you have been injured due to the negligence of another, call (916) 921-6400 or (800) 404-5400. We can also be reached online. You will receive free and friendly advice from us, we will review your case, and we will explain the options available to you to collect damages.
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Photo attribution: Image by Gerhard G. from Pixabay
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