Truck accidents are some of the most devastating incidents on the road. When a vehicle weighing over 20,000 pounds collides with a passenger car, the consequences are rarely minor.
While trucks are essential to our economy for delivering supplies and equipment, they also pose unique risks to everyone on the road. But what exactly causes these accidents? And when they happen, who is responsible? Let’s find out.
Table of Contents
Driver Fatigue
Truck drivers are often on the road for long hours, sometimes even pushing the limits of legal driving time.
Even though federal regulations restrict the number of hours a driver can operate without rest, many companies and people bend those rules to meet delivery deadlines. The result? Fatigue.
And the subsequent result of fatigue is slower reaction time, trouble focusing, and delayed decision-making, all of which are crucial when you’re in control of such a heavy vehicle.
Poor Truck Maintenance
Large commercial vehicles need constant upkeep. The brakes, tires, lights, and other components need to be inspected regularly.
When maintenance is skipped or forgotten, it creates a massive safety risk. Sure, it might save money or time, but it could result in major losses on the road.
Common maintenance issues that can lead to accidents include:
In cases like these, the trucking company may be held liable for negligence. A truck accident lawyer can help determine the right course of action.
Distracted Driving
Truck drivers are human. That means they’re not immune to the temptations of texting, eating, adjusting the GPS, or even watching videos while driving. But given the sheer size of their vehicles, even minor or brief distractions can have deadly consequences.
While distracted driving is a problem for all drivers, the margin for error with a truck is significantly smaller.
Speeding or Aggressive Driving
In the trucking industry, time is money. So, some drivers feel pressured to make up for lost time by speeding or weaving through traffic.
Unfortunately, even small speed increases can be deadly with a truck’s massive weight and longer stopping distance. In fact, a loaded truck can take twice (or even more) the distance of a passenger car to come to a complete stop.
So, even simple tailgating can lead to fatal consequences.
Inadequate Training or Experience
Driving a commercial truck is very different from driving a regular car. That’s why it requires:
Unfortunately, some companies rush drivers into trucks without enough training. Others fail to properly vet or background check their drivers. This neglect increases the chances of serious accidents on the road.
Weather and Road Conditions
Rain, snow, fog, and ice can all increase the risk of accidents. Trucks have a harder time braking and moving on slippery roads, but that doesn’t automatically excuse the driver.
Trucking companies and drivers are expected to adjust their speed, route, and behavior based on the weather. Failure to do so can be considered a form of negligence.
