Trucking accidents have become too common in recent years, and it’s not difficult to understand why. With heavy loads and long hours on the road, truck drivers are often the cause of dangerous accidents that put other drivers in danger.
As personal injury lawyers, we have seen the terrible consequences of truck accidents far too often. We want to help trucking accident injury victims understand that what happened to them wasn’t their fault because there are many common causes of a trucking accident that lay the blame at another party’s feet.
Fatigue Causes Many Trucking Accidents
Long hours on the road can lead to truck driver fatigue, which can cause accidents. Fatigue affects a driver's ability to react quickly, stay alert, and make good decisions, leading to an increased risk of accidents. Drivers are often under pressure to meet tight deadlines, and some may take stimulants to stay awake, which only increases the risk of accidents.
Overloaded Trucks Are Road Hazards
Trucking companies may overload trucks to reduce costs or increase productivity, but this puts other drivers at risk. Overloaded trucks are more difficult to control, especially when making turns or maneuvering through narrow spaces. Such trucks also place undue strain on the braking system, increasing the risk of brake failure and causing accidents.
Poorly Maintained Trucks Put Other Drivers at Risk
Regular maintenance is crucial to ensure that trucks are in good working condition and prevent accidents. Neglected trucks are at a higher risk of causing accidents due to faulty brakes, worn-out tires, and other mechanical problems.
Distracted Driving Is Dangerous
Distracted driving is a major cause of truck accidents. Distractions for truck drivers can include using smartphones, eating or drinking while driving, and even grooming themselves. Truck drivers are also prone to distractions from other road users, such as pedestrians or other vehicles.
Intoxicated Driving Can Be Deadly
Like any driver, truck drivers may drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol and cause disastrous accidents. Intoxication impairs a driver's judgment, slows down their reaction times, and affects their ability to make safe decisions. Intoxicated drivers behind the wheels of a truck are a sure recipe for disaster and should be avoided at all costs. Unfortunately, too many intoxicated truck driving accidents are deadly.
Do You Need Legal Assistance?
While truck drivers need to be held accountable for their actions, trucking companies also have an obligation to ensure that their drivers are safe while on the road. When a trucking accident occurs, multiple parties can share liability for injuries sustained by other drivers and their passengers.
If you were injured in a trucking accident, it’s time to act. Smolich and Smolich can provide the legal support you need to move forward with your claim.