There are many different types of semi-trucks on the road, and it may not always be clear which ones you are driving by during your daily commute. You know intuitively that driving near trucks increases the danger to you since getting into an accident with one of these oversized vehicles is likely to cause serious injuries, but are some trucks more dangerous than others?

A risky profession

There is certainly an increased level of danger from trucks that carry oil and gas. Some reports have listed driving a fuel truck as a very dangerous profession, and drivers have to take on that risk. But it extends beyond just those drivers. In a two-vehicle accident, the driver and/or passengers in the other vehicle also face some serious issues.

It’s not that fuel trucks are more likely to crash, though driving a vehicle filled with liquid fuel can feel different than transporting other types of cargo. That’s especially true when turning, and drivers need experience and skill. But the real danger is that the fuel could ignite or even explode in the event of a crash. One spark in the wrong place could be all that it takes.

Certainly, the industry knows about these risks and there are safeguards in place, but all bets are off if a damaged fuel tanker begins leaking after a crash. Even though emergency crews arrive quickly, the odds of burn injuries and smoke inhalation injuries — among many others — rise for all people involved.

What are your legal options?

If you do suffer serious injuries in a crash, you may have a right to financial compensation for medical bills and other costs from one or more individuals or entities. It’s wise to determine what your legal options are.