Semi-truck accidents are unfortunately common and often result in serious consequences due to the size and weight of these vehicles. These accidents can lead to significant damage to property, severe injuries, and, in some cases, loss of life. There are several common causes of semi truck accidents, including driver fatigue from long hours on the road.
There are many safety efforts in place to help prevent semi-truck accidents such as strict regulations and standards for drivers and trucking companies, regular vehicle inspections, and promoting awareness about safe driving practices. Additionally, advancements in technology, such as collision avoidance systems and electronic logging devices, aim to improve the safety of semi-trucks on the roads.
If you or a loved one was injured in an accident involving a semi-truck, you may be dealing with significant injuries that are preventing you from getting back to your regular life. Truck accident lawyers fight for the rights of injured drivers – find a local attorney who can help.
Common Causes of Semi-Truck Accidents
There are several common causes of semi-truck accidents, including:
- Driver fatigue. Long hours on the road can lead to driver fatigue, impairing a truck driver’s ability to react quickly and make sound decisions. Hours-of-service regulations are in place to limit the number of consecutive driving hours and require rest breaks but some truck drivers may exceed their allowable driving hours.
- Distracted driving. Just like in other vehicles, distracted driving can be a major cause of accidents involving semi-trucks. This can include texting, using a phone, eating, or other activities that take a driver’s attention away from the road.
- Speeding. Excessive speed is a significant factor in truck accidents. Semi-trucks require longer distances to stop than smaller vehicles, and when they are traveling too fast, they may not be able to stop in time to avoid a collision.
- Impaired driving. Truck drivers operating under the influence of drugs or alcohol can pose a serious threat to other road users. Commercial drivers are subject to strict alcohol and drug testing regulations, but violations still occur.
- Inadequate training. Inexperienced or inadequately trained truck drivers may struggle to handle the complexities of large commercial vehicles, leading to accidents.
- Poor vehicle maintenance. Neglected maintenance can lead to equipment failures, such as brake or tire malfunctions, which are particularly dangerous for semi-trucks.
- Overloaded or improperly loaded cargo. Trucks that are overloaded or have improperly distributed cargo can become unstable and difficult to control, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Weather conditions. Adverse weather conditions, such as rain, snow, ice, fog, or strong winds, can make driving a semi-truck challenging. Reduced visibility and slippery roads can lead to accidents.
- Aggressive driving. Aggressive behaviors like tailgating, improper lane changes, and road rage by truck drivers or other motorists can result in accidents.
- Blind spots. Semi-trucks have significant blind spots, and accidents can occur when other drivers linger in these areas, making it difficult for the truck driver to see them.
- Road design and conditions. Poorly designed roads, construction zones, potholes, and debris on the road can contribute to accidents involving semi-trucks.
To reduce the risk of semi-truck accidents, it’s important for trucking companies and drivers to prioritize safety, adhere to regulations, and exercise caution on the road. Additionally, other motorists should be aware of the challenges that semi-truck drivers face and drive defensively when sharing the road with these large vehicles. It’s crucial for all road users, including truck drivers, to follow traffic laws, practice safe driving behaviors, and remain vigilant to reduce the risk of semi-truck accidents and enhance overall road safety.
Seek the help of a truck accident lawyer
If you or a loved one was injured in a collision because of the negligence of another, contact a personal injury lawyer to discuss your legal rights. Let an experienced truck accident attorney fight for the full compensation that you deserve. It is not uncommon to receive a settlement from the insurance company that is five to ten times larger with the help of a lawyer. Call the personal injury lawyers at Tario & Associates, P.S. in Bellingham, WA today for a FREE consultation! We have been representing residents of Whatcom County, Skagit County, Island County and Snohomish County since 1979. You will pay nothing up front and no attorney fees at all unless we recover damages for you!
