Truck accidents can be catastrophic, resulting in severe injuries, property damage, and even fatalities. Due to the size and weight of commercial trucks, collisions involving these vehicles are often more devastating than typical car accidents. Understanding the most common causes of truck accidents is critical for drivers, victims, and families seeking legal recourse. In this article, we explore four leading causes of truck crashes and why it’s important to consult an experienced Lafaytte, IN truck accident lawyer if you or a loved one has been affected.
Driver Fatigue
Long hours on the road and demanding delivery schedules often lead to driver fatigue, which is one of the most common causes of truck accidents. Despite federal regulations limiting hours of service, some truck drivers may feel pressured to exceed these limits, resulting in slower reaction times, lapses in judgment, and falling asleep at the wheel. Fatigue-related crashes can be particularly dangerous because they often occur on highways at high speeds, leaving little time for other drivers to react.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is a major cause of truck accidents. Truck drivers may be distracted by mobile devices, GPS systems, or other in-cab activities. Even a momentary lapse in attention can have devastating consequences due to the large size and momentum of commercial trucks. Texting, eating, or adjusting equipment while driving increases the risk of collisions with other vehicles, pedestrians, or fixed objects. Both state and federal regulations prohibit certain distractions, but enforcement can be challenging, making distracted driving a common factor in truck collisions.
Mechanical Failures
Trucks require regular maintenance to operate safely. Mechanical failures, such as brake malfunctions, tire blowouts, or steering defects, can lead to serious accidents. Trucking companies are responsible for ensuring their vehicles are properly maintained and inspected, but negligence in this area is not uncommon. Accidents caused by mechanical failures often involve questions of liability, including whether the driver, trucking company, or vehicle manufacturer is responsible for the crash.
Speeding And Aggressive Driving
Excessive speed and aggressive driving behaviors, including tailgating, improper lane changes, and failure to yield, are major contributors to truck accidents. While trucks are slower to accelerate and decelerate than smaller vehicles, speeding trucks pose significant risks, particularly on highways and in urban areas. Aggressive driving reduces the driver’s ability to respond to hazards and increases the likelihood of rollover crashes, jackknife incidents, and multi-vehicle collisions.
Have You Been Injured?
Truck accidents can result from a variety of factors, but fatigue, distraction, mechanical failures, and aggressive driving remain the most common causes of these accidents. Understanding these risks can help drivers stay vigilant on the road and also inform victims of the potential factors in their accident. Determining liability in a truck accident often requires careful investigation and knowledge of federal and state regulations, making legal guidance essential.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, the experienced attorneys at Hall-Justice Law Firm LLC can help you navigate the complex legal process. Contact our team today to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can fight for the compensation you deserve. From medical expenses and lost wages to pain and suffering, we are committed to protecting your rights and helping you recover.
