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truck accident

WHAT ARE THE MOST COMMON CAUSES OF TRUCK ACCIDENTS?

Steven Day July 27, 2020

Although most of us like to think of ourselves as safe drivers, the scary truth is that there are around 5.5 million car accidents that occur every year in the United States -- which take an economic toll of $250 billion. What's even more frightening is the fact that you might be involved in a collision with a vehicle that's substantially larger than your average automobile. And if your crash involves a large truck, chances are that you'll be suddenly faced with significant medical bills, the inability to work, and an uncertain future.

Of course, should you find yourself in this situation, you should contact a trucking accident lawyer immediately after obtaining medical care. But in order to potentially avoid being involved in truck accidents in the first place -- or to better understand the circumstances that led to your collision involving a large truck -- it may help to go over the most common causes of these kinds of crashes. While not a definitive list, here are just a few of the reasons that trucking accidents occur.

THE MOST COMMON CAUSES OF ACCIDENTS INVOLVING LARGE TRUCKS

  • Distracted or Impaired Driving: Just like with any kind of auto collision, distracted or impaired driving can play a part in truck accidents. Unfortunately, some truck drivers have been found to consume alcohol, prescription medications, or illegal substances while on the job. It should go without saying that these behaviors can have major consequences -- and with a large truck, those consequences are often amplified exponentially.

  • Speeding: Another common cause of auto accidents, speeding can certainly be a factor in collisions involving trucks. Truck drivers often find themselves under enormous pressure to reach their destination within a short amount of time, which means they might be tempted to speed in order to meet those goals. Tragically, excessive speeding can often prove fatal.

  • Fatigue: Because truck drivers face pressure to deliver their cargo quickly, they may also drive for long distances without substantial breaks in between. Ultimately, this can lead to fatigue and result in poor concentration, decreased coordination, and even the potential to fall asleep at the wheel.

  • Lack of Vehicle Maintenance: Another common cause of trucking accidents may not be solely attributed to driver error -- but it may still point to negligence. Although truckers are obligated to ensure their vehicles are properly maintained, some may lack the training or are reluctant to put in the time to address these concerns before getting behind the wheel. A truck that's in poor condition can make it more difficult for a driver to avoid an accident.

Whether you've recently been involved in a collision involving a truck or you simply want to make more informed decisions when you're on the road, knowing the common causes of these accidents can help you protect yourself. For more information or to schedule a consultation with our team, please contact us today.