Truck Accident Causes
Driver Fatigue
Driver fatigue is one of the leading causes of truck accidents. Truck drivers often work long hours to meet tight deadlines, leading to drowsy driving and reduced reaction times. Fatigue significantly impairs a driver’s ability to focus, make quick decisions, and safely operate their vehicle.
Federal regulations require rest periods for commercial truck drivers, but some ignore these rules to maximize profits. This disregard for safety often results in preventable accidents. Common signs of fatigue-related crashes include drifting across lanes, delayed braking, and collisions at highway speeds.
Victims of accidents caused by fatigued truck drivers may suffer severe injuries or fatalities. If you’ve been harmed by a drowsy truck driver, holding the responsible party accountable can help prevent future tragedies and provide compensation for your damages.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is another significant cause of truck accidents. Texting, using GPS devices, or eating while driving can divert a truck driver’s attention from the road. A split-second distraction can lead to catastrophic consequences, particularly with vehicles as large as 18-wheelers.
The danger of distracted driving increases with the size and weight of commercial trucks. Even minor distractions can result in significant damage due to the extended stopping distance required for big rigs. Unfortunately, distracted driving is becoming increasingly common despite awareness campaigns.
If you’ve been injured in a truck accident caused by a distracted driver, you have the right to seek compensation. Legal action can help cover medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering caused by these avoidable crashes.
Mechanical Failures
Mechanical failures in trucks often lead to devastating accidents. Common issues include brake failure, tire blowouts, and steering malfunctions. These problems can occur due to poor maintenance, manufacturer defects, or improper inspections.
Trucking companies have a responsibility to ensure their vehicles are safe to operate. Regular inspections and prompt repairs are essential to prevent mechanical failures. When companies or drivers neglect this duty, they put everyone on the road at risk.
Victims of accidents caused by mechanical failures may face complex legal battles to determine liability. Whether it’s the truck driver, maintenance crew, or manufacturer, identifying the responsible party is critical for obtaining justice and compensation.
Overloaded or Improperly Loaded Cargo
Overloaded or improperly loaded cargo is a frequent cause of truck accidents. Excess weight can strain a truck’s brakes and increase the likelihood of rollovers, while unevenly distributed cargo can cause instability. In some cases, improperly secured cargo may spill onto the road, creating hazards for other drivers.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has specific guidelines for cargo weight and securement. However, not all trucking companies or drivers adhere to these standards. Ignoring these guidelines can have dire consequences, especially on highways or during sharp turns.
If you’ve been involved in an accident caused by overloaded or improperly loaded cargo, you may be entitled to compensation. Holding negligent parties accountable is vital to improving safety standards in the trucking industry.
Speeding and Reckless Driving
Speeding and reckless driving are major contributors to truck accidents. Due to their size and weight, trucks require significantly more time and distance to come to a complete stop. Excessive speed amplifies the danger, particularly in adverse weather or heavy traffic conditions.
Reckless behaviors such as tailgating, weaving between lanes, and ignoring traffic signals are also common causes of truck accidents. These actions not only endanger the truck driver but also put nearby motorists at risk of severe injury or death.
If you or a loved one has been harmed by a speeding or reckless truck driver, it’s crucial to take legal action. Contact the St. Louis truck accident lawyers at Kevin Etzkorn Law to protect your rights and seek the compensation you deserve.
Additional Information
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