There’s no doubt that getting behind the wheel of any motor vehicle can prove dangerous. Therefore those who choose to be commercial truck drivers put themselves at great risk. In fact, commercial trucking is one of the most dangerous occupations one could choose.
Due simply to their size and weight alone, individuals in passenger vehicles generally fare far worse when involved in an accident with a commercial truck or tractor-trailer. To put things into perspective, trucks often weigh about 15-20 times more than the average car.
Fortunately, there are things that can be done to help prevent such accidents. But in order to know how they can be prevented, you must first understand their common causes. Here are the top 4 common causes of commercial truck accidents.
1. Poor Driving
The leading cause of commercial wrecks between 2001 and 2003 was driver error. Driver error is sometimes a direct result of inadequate training. Truck drivers sometimes make the decision to travel too fast for the road or weather, speed, or turn sharply, resulting in an inability to control the vehicle and ultimately an accident.
2. Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is the second most common cause of commercial truck accidents. As technology continues to evolve and run our lives, millions of people behind the wheel fail to pay complete attention to the road in front of them, rather looking at their phones, playing with the radio, and eating or drinking among other things.
3. Impaired/Drowsy Driving
The next most common cause of commercial trucking accidents is impaired or drowsy driving. Whether a driver is under the influence of a substance or has received inadequate rest, this can have quite an impact on his or her ability to safely navigate the vehicle. Additionally, physical issues such as heart attacks and seizures may contribute to crashes, demonstrating why it’s so important that all drivers receive regular physicals.
4. Truck Malfunctions
Vehicle malfunctions are the final leading cause of commercial truck accidents. It is the responsibility of the truck owner to maintain his or her vehicle. If a truck owner fails to properly maintain his or her truck and it is involved in an accident because of this failure, he or she can certainly be held liable for any and all damages.
One of the best things that drivers of all vehicles can do to prevent accidents is to remain alert at all times while driving. Since occupants of passenger vehicles usually have a much larger risk of injury when involved in a truck accident, it’s imperative that their drivers stay out of any potential blind spots of the truck, remain alert, and drive defensively, assuming that they cannot be seen. That way, if something goes wrong they will have adequate time to react and avoid serious injury.
MPJ Law Firm Can Help Those in NM Who Have Been Injured in a Truck Accident due to the Negligence or Recklessness of Another
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident due to the negligence of another party, it can be life-altering. It’s often difficult enough to deal with your physical injuries, but it can be even harder when you are left to pick up the pieces financially. You should never have to pay the price for someone else’s mistakes.
At MPJ Law Firm, we have a deep understanding of truck accidents and understand the effect that such an accident can have on just about all aspects of your life. We will always act in your best interest. To learn more or to schedule a free consultation, contact us today!
Posted in: Truck Accidents