The Main Reasons Why Truck Accidents Happen

Truck accidents are terrifying, to say the least. Unlike other vehicles on the road that can cause relatively minimal damage if an accident occurs, an accident involving a truck usually entails serious, even fatal, injuries. If you are ever involved in such an accident, knowing why this occurred can help you overcome the trauma and even aid you in getting the compensation you rightfully deserve for the impact on your physical and mental health. The following list of reasons will give you better insight into why these accidents occur.

1. Bad Weather

Depending on their destination, truck drivers may have to drive under very serious weather conditions including heavy rain or snow. If the truck does not have the necessary features to ensure it can safely transport its cargo in such weather, then there is a higher risk of being involved in an accident. Bad weather also considerably decreases visibility which is a crucial aspect when driving, regardless of the type of vehicle being used. Choosing to drive under these conditions without taking precautions is irresponsible and can lead to fatal accidents.

2. Unsafe Road Conditions

Weather is not the only factor that can make roads unsafe. If there is construction work or potholes on the road, then this can lead to accidents as drivers typically try to avoid these irregularities on the road. Other factors that affect safe road conditions include congestion and traffic density caused by the number of lanes on the road.

If a driver does not take all of these road conditions into consideration when driving, then they are putting themselves and others around them in danger. This is especially important to note for trucks that have loose cargo that could fall due to reckless driving on roads with potholes since these falling objects can cause others to get involved in serious accidents.

3. Distracted Drivers

Many studies show that distracted or inattentive drivers are the biggest factor contributing to a high percentage of truck accidents compared to other vehicle accidents. Drivers who try to pass the time on the road by scrolling through their phones, or other devices while they are behind the wheel are also placing themselves and other road users at great risk. This is clearly illegal because of the danger it poses to themselves and others on the road. Distracted drivers, as mentioned in https://www.herrmanandherrman.com/trucking-accident-lawyers/truck-crash-causes/inattentive-truck-drivers/, are one of the leading causes of accidents, especially in Texas. If you are ever involved in an accident due to the negligence of a truck driver, then you can easily seek compensation and ensure that this driver is not out there causing more accidents by being distracted while on the job.

4. Vehicle Malfunctions

Malfunctions in trucks on the road are another cause of accidents. In this case, the responsibility is not only on the driver but also on the company the driver works for or the truck's manufacturer. If the malfunction happens due to a lack of proper maintenance then the company which owns the truck is held accountable for the damages caused during the accident. However, if the issue is due to a manufacturer error, then this becomes another case altogether. Some of the malfunctions that may occur include brake and engine malfunction.

5. Speeding

Traffic laws are in place for a reason. If there are no regulations or laws in place to hold people responsible for their actions, then there are going to be countless accidents with no repercussions. Using a device when behind the wheel is not the only traffic law violation that can cause accidents. For example, if a driver does not adhere to the designated speed limit, then they increase the chance of an accident occurring. Likewise, driving without using signals may cause drivers on the road to move into other lanes which is a recipe for disaster on highways where sudden changes can cause multi-vehicle accidents.

6. Driving Under the Influence

Unfortunately, because of the stressful nature of having a career as a truck driver, many of them turn to alcohol or drugs. If a driver decides to operate his truck when he is under the influence of alcohol or drugs, then he is placing his life and that of others in serious danger. Driving under the influence affects one's perception, reflexes, and ability to concentrate which are all aspects that truckers need to keep sharp.

These six factors are the leading causes of truck accidents. Whether you are a trucker trying to maintain safety on the road, or you or a loved one were in a road accident involving a truck, knowing why these accidents happen can help you take better care on the road. Remember that if you or anyone you know gets involved in any road accident, you should get a medical checkup and consult a lawyer regarding how to proceed.