Truck accidents are often more devastating than the average collision between two cars. The weight and size of a semi-truck can make for a deadly combination when conditions are ripe for a crash. There are certain factors that can cause a serious truck accident.
Driver Error
One of the biggest causes of catastrophic truck accidents is driver error. There are many ways that a truck driver can make mistakes behind the wheel of a commercial truck. Fatigued driving occurs when the trucker has not gotten adequate rest and has missed breaks to refresh. It can be as dangerous as driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs by impairing judgment, reaction time, and control of the truck.
Other ways driver error can occur are through distracted driving, speeding, and reckless driving. Trucks have complex braking systems that make it take longer for them to come to a stop. If a trucker is traveling at too fast a speed, it can have deadly consequences when they try to stop.
Poor Maintenance
Commercial trucks are subject to strict maintenance rules and regulations on the state and federal levels. This is because they must be safe to travel long hours and distances on the road. If the trucking company neglects properly maintaining its trucks and an accident occurs and results in personal injury, they can be held liable. Lawyers like Stewart J. Guss Injury Accident Lawyers can make sure that a lawsuit is filed against the appropriate parties.
Improper Cargo Loading
Trucks are required to carry cargo from one destination to another. Often, what’s held within consists of dangerous chemicals or heavy equipment that can cause catastrophic injuries and death if the cargo comes loose. Cargo must be properly secured in a way that its weight is appropriate for the truck and with ties that are strong and intact.
Poor Weather Conditions
Sometimes, it’s not the fault of the driver, trucking company, or another party when a truck accident occurs. Certain weather conditions make the road more dangerous. If the ground is slick from rain, snow, or ice, a truck can be unsteady if the driver isn’t absolutely careful. Truckers should be trained on special braking techniques when driving over any type of inclement weather condition to avoid accidents.
Equipment Failure
Some truck accidents occur because of defective parts. If the manufacturer of the truck was negligent in ensuring that everything was in proper working order and designed properly, they could be held accountable if the truck ended up in an accident. In some cases, the manufacturer and the truck driver can both be held liable. Truckers are required to periodically check their vehicles to ensure that everything is in good working condition. If the driver notices anything wrong, they are required to report it and ensure that it’s repaired or that the faulty part is replaced.
If you suffered injuries in a truck accident, get in touch with the right Injury Accident Lawyers at your earliest convenience to discuss your case.