What Are the Most Common Causes of Truck Accidents?
Posted April 4th, 2024.
Categories: Blog.
Some of the largest vehicles on United States roads are 18-wheeler trucks. They are necessary for ground transportation of goods. Companies rely on the quick transportation of products across the country daily. They do a lot of good for the economy but unfortunately can cause severe damage and injury if involved in an accident. Truck accidents are becoming increasingly common across the U.S. and result in significant property damage, injury, and even death. The causes of truck accidents are vast and various. If you were involved in a truck accident and require legal representation or advice, reach out to a skilled Cherry Hill personal injury attorney.
How Do Truck Accidents Usually Occur?
Many hazards on the road can result in an accident, especially with a hard to maneuver vehicle like an 18-wheeler truck. Some of the most common causes of truck accidents can include:
- Driver fatigue
- Intoxication
- Poor road conditions
- Inclement weather
- Poor cargo loading
- Insufficient training
- Equipment failure
- Negligent hiring
- Reckless driving (on the part of the truck driver or a surrounding vehicle driver)
- Speeding, failing to obey traffic laws, sudden lane changes, cutting off other vehicles, sudden braking, following too closely, etc.
- Distracted driving
- Lack of truck maintenance
- Hazards or debris on the road
Sometimes the fault lies with the truck drivers themselves, but not always. Another driver on the road or the trucking company can be held responsible for an accident as well, or even conditions out of anyone’s control.
Is a Truck Accident More Dangerous Than a Car Accident?
Any motor vehicle accident can result in serious damage and injury, but a truck accident involving an 18-wheeler is more dangerous than if two passenger vehicles collided. The significant size and weight of the truck can cause extensive damage and even death. Studies show that in 2021 the number of large trucks that were involved in fatal car crashes increased by 18% and the number of injuries related to truck accidents was over 155,000.
How Can I Avoid Being Involved in a Truck Accident?
Sometimes accidents are unavoidable. However, when you are on the road there are steps you can take to maximize your chances of a safe journey. To avoid being involved in a truck accident, consider the following.
- Drive at the posted speed limit
- Do not follow too closely behind a truck. Keep a safe distance between yourself and the other vehicle.
- Use your blinkers when changing lanes or making a turn
- Do not partake in distracted driving, including eating, drinking, texting, calling, or taking your eyes off the road for any other reason.
- Avoid sudden braking
- Do not drive in the truck driver’s blind spots for a prolonged period
You must remember the limitations of driving an 18-wheeler truck. They cannot speed up or slow down as quickly as a smaller passenger vehicle. They cannot suddenly swerve out of the way or change lanes without risk of losing control or tipping the vehicle. Your careful driving can contribute to keeping the roads safe.
