Truck accidents are generally disastrous. Due to their size and weight, large vehicles such as tractor-trailers and delivery trucks can inflict significant damage to passenger cars. According to FMCSA statistics, many of these accidents happened due to truck drivers not focusing on the roadway or not changing their speed according to the prevailing road conditions.
Additional factors contributing to accidents include faulty vehicles and trucking companies’ failure to guarantee that their drivers are sufficiently certified and trained. The death rate is so high that over 5,000 Americans die yearly in truck accidents. If you have been involved in a truck accident, talk to a Redkey Gordon Law Corp lawyer today.
The biggest causes of semi-truck accidents
Semi-trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, making semi-truck accidents significantly more deadly than ordinary vehicle collisions. Truck accidents are, however, avoidable. Often, all it takes is a little awareness and action to avoid their typical causes – which is why it is important to know what causes them. Some of the most common causes of semi-truck accidents are:
- Brake issues
- Drowsiness
- Congestion, a previous crash, or other traffic
- Insufficient surveillance
- Prescription drug use
- Over-the-counter drug use
- Speeding
- Not stopping at crosswalks, streetlights, and other traffic controls
- Driving on unfamiliar roads
- Roadway problems
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and the Highway Loss Data Institute, significant truck crashes are caused by safety flaws and working long hours. A truck driver who fails to perform their duties properly might sometimes cause a collision. They may overreact or underreact to traffic situations.
Accidents can also be caused or triggered by the vehicle itself. According to the FMCSA, difficulties with the brakes or tires are among the leading causes of truck accidents with other vehicles.
Drivers can lower their chances of being involved in a collision by driving carefully and paying attention to the road. Truck and passenger vehicle drivers are encouraged to drive cautiously, not only because the law demands it but also because it can save lives.
While accidents can be the fault of a semi-truck driver, there are several things that any car driver can do to help protect oneself against an accident with large commercial vehicles. It is always beneficial to drive defensively, remain securely within posted speed limits, and keep your focus on the road.
With so many potential reasons for an accident, drivers may feel overwhelmed when claiming compensation. An experienced attorney can help determine the appropriate procedures for truck accident lawsuits and any state or federal statutes that apply to the case.