Top 6 Common Causes Of Truck Accidents You Should Know
Truck accidents are a serious concern on the roads, especially given the size of commercial vehicles like big rigs and delivery trucks. These accidents can cause devastating injuries and fatalities, and the aftermath can be overwhelming for victims and their families. Knowing the common causes of truck accidents is key to reducing these risks and knowing what to do if you’re involved in one.
Freeman Injury Law handles cases involving truck accidents and works to make sure victims receive the justice and compensation they deserve. If you’ve been affected by a truck accident, our experienced team is here to help.
Driver Fatigue
One of the most prevalent causes of truck accidents is driver fatigue. Commercial truck drivers often work long hours and are under pressure to meet tight deadlines, which can lead to extreme exhaustion. Fatigued drivers react slowly, have poorer judgment, and are more likely to doze off behind the wheel.
The trucking industry is regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), which sets hours-of-service (HOS) regulations to limit the amount of time drivers can be on the road without taking breaks. Unfortunately, not all drivers or companies follow these rules. Drivers may push themselves past safe limits to meet delivery deadlines or avoid penalties, increasing the chances of accidents.
If a truck driver’s fatigue led to the accident, they and their employer could be held liable for the damages. A trucking accident lawyer can help gather evidence of driver fatigue and make sure that the responsible parties are held accountable.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is another major factor among the common causes of truck accidents. Truck drivers can be distracted by cell phones, in-cab electronics, eating, or even daydreaming.
Because of the size of commercial trucks, even a brief distraction can lead to serious consequences. A distracted driver might miss smaller vehicles, fail to react to hazards, or veer into another lane.
Although hands-free devices and GPS systems are available, ignoring these tools or engaging in unsafe behavior increases accident risks. Lawyers can investigate distracted driving incidents and gather evidence to support claims against negligent drivers.
Poor Truck Maintenance
Mechanical failures are a frequent factor in the common causes of truck accidents. Tires, brakes, steering systems, and lights are critical to safe operation, and failure in any of these areas can cause a driver to lose control. Brake failure, for instance, is a common issue that can result in catastrophic accidents.
Trucking companies have a legal obligation to maintain their vehicles. When an accident stems from poor maintenance, both the company and driver may be liable. Legal guidance can identify maintenance issues that contributed to a crash and strengthen a claim for damages.
Speeding and Unsafe Driving
Trucks weigh much more and are larger than passenger vehicles, so more time and distance are needed for them to come to a stop, especially when they are traveling at high speeds.
When truck drivers speed or fail to adjust their driving to the conditions of the road, they are at a higher risk of accidents. Some truck drivers also lack the license required to operate such vehicles, which may result in catastrophic incidents.
Trucks have a higher risk of rolling over, particularly when navigating curves or sharp turns at high speeds. Driving too fast on poor roads or during bad weather greatly increases the likelihood of serious accidents.
In certain situations, trucking companies may pressure drivers to meet tight deadlines and push them to drive faster than is safe. When this happens, the company can also be held accountable for the accident.
Driving Under the Influence
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a major factor in many truck accidents.
Commercial truck drivers are required to pass drug and alcohol tests regularly, and the FMCSA sets strict rules regarding allowable blood alcohol content (BAC) for truck drivers. This is usually 0.04%, compared to 0.08% for regular drivers. However, some drivers still choose to drive under the influence, often putting their lives and the lives of others at risk.
If a truck driver is found to be under the influence at the time of an accident, the consequences can be severe. Not only will they face criminal charges, but the trucking company may also be held liable for the incident if they failed to take proper precautions to ensure their drivers were fit for duty.
Blind Spots and No-Zones
Another common cause of truck accidents is the driver’s inability to see other vehicles in their blind spots, also known as “no-zones.” Due to the size and shape of commercial trucks, the blind spots around them are significantly larger than those of smaller vehicles. These areas are located directly behind the truck, along the sides, and in front of the cab.
When other vehicles linger in these blind spots, truck drivers may not see them, which results in dangerous lane changes or sudden swerves that can lead to a collision. For this reason, it’s important for smaller vehicles to avoid staying in a truck’s blind spot for extended periods.
Furthermore, truck drivers should exercise extra caution when changing lanes. They must make sure their blind spots are clear before maneuvering.
What to Do If You’re Involved in a Truck Accident
If you’ve been involved in a truck accident, it’s important to take action quickly. Start by seeking medical attention for any injuries, then contact a trucking accident lawyer to help you navigate the legal process. An experienced lawyer can help investigate the cause of the accident, identify responsible parties, and gather evidence to build a strong case for compensation.
Truck accident cases can be complex, as multiple parties could be involved, such as the driver, trucking company, and maintenance provider. An attorney with expertise in truck accidents can handle negotiations with insurance companies and help secure fair compensation for your injuries, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Why Choose Freeman Injury Law?
Freeman Injury Law recognizes the severity of truck accidents and the challenges that come with pursuing a claim. Our experienced team of trucking accident lawyers is ready to assist you in seeking justice and compensation for your injuries. From investigating the accident to negotiating with insurance companies, we will handle every aspect of your case while you focus on your recovery.
We offer free consultations, so there’s no risk in reaching out to us. If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, don’t wait to get the legal help you need. Let us fight for the compensation you deserve.
Contact Freeman Injury Law today to discuss your case with an experienced attorney.