Due to the sheer size and weight of semi-trucks, it’s no wonder that semi-truck accidents tend to be deadly, with more severe damages and injuries than typical auto accidents. Determining fault in semi-truck accidents depends on the cause of the accident. While many may assume that the truck driver is to blame, this is not always the case. Depending on cause and liability, one or multiple parties may be responsible for the accident.
Here is what you need to know about three of the most common causes of semi-truck accidents, as well as safety measures you can take in order to stave off the potential of such an accident.
#1. Driver Error
The leading cause of semi-truck accidents is simple human error. Everyone makes mistakes while driving, but since truck drivers have such a huge load and responsibility, their mistakes can result in more severe consequences. According to the FMCSA, about 88% of semi-truck accidents are due to driver error.
Some of the errors truck drivers can make that can result in a semi-truck accident include:
- Not monitoring blind spots
- Turning too quickly
- Speeding
- Distracted driving
- Substance use
- Exhaustion
- Failure to adjust to road and weather conditions
- Lack of training
- And more
Truck drivers must ensure that they are alert and exercise safe practices while driving in order to prevent accidents. Since there is a high demand for truck drivers, truck companies can sometimes fail to ensure their drivers receive appropriate training. Truck companies must ensure that any and all truck drivers are properly trained and have enough experience before allowing them to drive on their own.
Truck drivers must account for the size and weight of their vehicles and be careful not to drive too fast and to ensure that they have ample space before making any turns or lane changes. They must stay alert, and not become distracted by phones, radios, eating, drinking, or talking while driving. They must ensure that they are rested before driving, and that they adjust their driving to match the weather and road conditions.
Driver errors can lead to disastrous accidents. Truck drivers need to ensure that they bring their A-game and that they practice safe driving and adhere to guidelines, to do their part to prevent accidents.
#2. Lack Of Maintenance
Truck companies can sometimes avoid necessary maintenance in order to take home more of a profit. Maintaining semi-trucks can be very costly and time-consuming, which can cut into profits and how many shipments can be sent out. It’s absolutely crucial that truck companies ensure that they keep their trucks in good condition in order to avoid semi-truck accidents that result from vehicle mishaps.
Some of the reasons why lack of maintenance can lead to accidents include:
- Brake failure
- Tires wearing out
- Mechanical failures
When trucks are not properly maintained, this can cause many different hazardous scenarios, such as jack-knifing, rollovers, and more. In order to ensure that their trucks are safe to drive, truck companies must ensure that they are properly maintained and in good condition.
#3. Car Drivers Committing Hazardous Acts
Truck drivers should know that semi-trucks need more time and space in order to brake and turn properly, as well as watch for any blind spots and the like. However, even if a truck driver is careful and does everything right, semi-truck accidents can still occur when car drivers are not mindful of the size, weight, and needs of trucks on the roads.
Some of the actions that car drivers can take that can lead to semi-truck accidents include:
- Changing lanes right in front of a truck without ensuring that there is enough space between the car and the truck.
- Driving in a truck’s blind spots. It’s generally said that if you cannot see the truck’s side mirrors, the truck driver cannot see you.
- Trying to speed up or slow down in order to keep a truck from merging into their lane, instead of making room.
- Passing unsafely, such as without enough space or when there are strong winds affecting placement.
- Driving to the right of a truck that is attempting to make or is in the process of completing a right turn.
Car drivers must ensure that they give trucks enough space and that they are careful around them, to do their part to prevent accidents.
Have You Been In A Truck Accident?
LeBaron & Jensen is here for you. We understand how severe these accidents can be, as well as how challenging truck accident cases can be. Our attorneys are dedicated to gathering the evidence and using all of our resources to fight for you. Contact us today for your free, no-obligation case consultation and let us fight for justice for you.
