The truck industry in the United States is expanding consistently. Trucks are among the most suitable means of transporting goods across the US. Even though faster and newer ways of transport exist, about 70% of all cargoes reach their destination via various types of trucks. Unfortunately, there has been an increase in truck accidents over the last decade. The US has witnessed a 33% increase in fatal crashes involving large trucks since 2011.
It raises an important question: what causes truck accidents? Let us take a look at the significant reasons.
Driver Error
Driver error is among the top reasons behind truck accidents. It can include a variety of factors. Some of the common factors leading to driver error are:
Reckless Driving
Reckless and aggressive driving can involve many types of thoughtless behavior, such as speeding, tailgating, jumping traffic signals, etc.
Fatigue
When driving for a long time, a driver can experience fatigue. It reduces the driver’s ability to react promptly in an emergency.
Driving under the Influence
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol can seriously impair a driver’s capacity to control the vehicle and drive safely.
Distracted Driving
Drivers can become distracted if they indulge in talking on a phone or texting while driving. Even listening to music can sometimes distract their mind.
Mechanical Errors
Another common cause of truck accidents is mechanical errors. This can encompass different factors, such as:
Poorly Maintained Vehicle
A poorly maintained truck can create a severe risk of accidents on the road. Worn tires or a defective part can have dire consequences.
Malfunctioning Brakes
Brakes are among the essential parts of a truck. If a brake is not installed correctly or doesn’t work smoothly, it can become the cause of tragedies on the road.
Unbalanced Load
When cargo loading is not done properly, it can cause the cargo to fall on the road while the truck travels at high speed. It can lead to accidents of other vehicles. Sometimes the whole truck topples over. Due to such reasons, an unbalanced load often becomes the cause of truck accidents on the road.
Bad Weather Conditions
Severe weather condition is yet another reason behind truck accidents. Heavy rain can adversely affect the visibility of the drivers. Snow can pose a challenge for truck drivers to control their vehicles effectively. Strong winds, fog, ice, and other unfavorable weather conditions can result in a poor judgment by the drivers and lead to accidents and injuries on the road.
These are just some of the major contributing factors to truck accidents. While it is necessary to check the causes of accidents, sometimes the cause may not be attributed to a driver.
If you find yourself involved in a truck accident, stay calm and address your injuries first. Then get in touch with a capable attorney who will be able to investigate the accident and determine the real cause of it. Your attorney will also be able to identify the liable parties. Contact Craig J. Concannon, P.C., a licensed attorney, to help you out with your truck accident case. You can reach him at +1 (314)421-3329.