Truck Accident Glossary
18 Wheeler: A common term for a commercial truck, referencing the number of wheels used.
Allowable Payload: The amount of cargo a particular style of truck is allowed either by law or by vehicle design and axle load specifications, to carry.
Blind Spot: This is an area where the truck driver is unable to detect other vehicles in its mirrors, through the windshield or side windows. A vehicle hidden in the blind spot of a truck can lead to serious accident.
Body Clearance: This is the space between the cab and the rest of the truck to reduce or minimize contact in the event of a truck accident.
Common Carrier: A truck or freight transportation company that serves the general public by moving goods along regular or irregular routes over designated highways.
Dead Heading: When a tanker truck carries a less than full load, it can cause a loss of control especially in a tanker truck due to the liquid sloshing around; this condition is known as dead heading because of the danger of the loss of control.
Engine Brake: Also called Jake Brakes, these are a common braking mechanism that uses engine compression to assist with stopping.
Empty Combination Weight: ECW refers to the weight of the empty truck and trailer, minus the weight of the load and any passengers.
Hazardous Cargo: Hazardous cargo like liquid nitrogen, gasoline, and other flammable material is strictly regulated by the EPA. Hazardous cargo is determined by the secretary of transportation to pose a danger if not handled properly. Strict transportation rules apply when transporting hazardous cargo over the road.
Hit and Run: An accident where a person involved in the accident, usually the driver responsible for the accident flees the accident scene before the authorities arrive, is called a hit and run accident.
Hours Driving: The amount of time between the time of the accident and when the driver started driving is knows as hours driving.
Jackknife: This is a condition that occurs when the cab and the trailer stop at a 90-degree or lesser angle. Jackknifing is one of the most common causes of truck accidents.
Logbook: Every over-the-road trucker is required to keep a logbook of his or her driving hours, per the U.S. Department of Transportation.
Override Accident: this type of accident occurs when the truck runs over the top of other, smaller vehicles.
Payload: The amount of cargo a tractor-trailer is carrying, which is usually measured by weight, is called the payload.
Roadway Surface Condition: The condition of the road at the time of the accident is called the roadway surface condition; for example, icy, slippery, wet, dry etc.
Underride Accident: An underride accident occurs when a vehicles runs under the deck of a trailer. This often occurs when a truck jackknives in the middle of the road.
If you or a loved one was involved an a truck accident, please contact us to help you find an experienced truck accident attorney in your area.
