Truck crashes account for 6% of fatal accidents in the country per year. According to statistics, there are around 140,000 and 165,000 semi-truck accidents annually. Due to the size and weight of these vehicles, the injuries and damages caused after an accident are quite severe.
When injured in an accident involving a semi-truck, victims should consult attorneys to help in filing a claim and pursuing compensation. Keep reading to learn more about the causes of semi-truck accidents and some measures we should take to reduce their occurrence.
Common Causes of Semi-Truck Accidents
Some truck accidents are caused by driver’s mistakes, which are preventable. Most incidents are the result of:
Driver Fatigue
Truck drivers often work long hours to meet the delivery deadlines. The federal hours of service (HOS) limit the number of hours drivers have to work. Unfortunately, it is common for drivers to violate these limits and exceed the driving window. This increases exhaustion, which reduces reaction times.
Distracted Driving
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 11% of traffic accidents in 2022 were caused by distracted driving. Most drivers use their cell phones or eat while driving. Since truck drivers often end up navigating new roads, they may take their eyes off the road to adjust the GPS or check directions, which heightens the risk of an accident.
Driving Under the Influence
Studies done in the past have shown drunk driving is relatively high among truck drivers. Most companies have strict policies around driving under the influence but this is still a menace. Alcohol, illegal drugs, and even prescription medication impair a driver’s judgment, leading to accidents.
Lack of Enough Training
Handling trucks requires extensive training. Drivers must complete entry-level driver training and pass the theory test, among many other series of requirements. Inexperienced or poorly trained drivers may have trouble on the road, especially when it comes to maneuvering, braking with heavy loads, or handling emergencies leading to accidents.
Poor Vehicle Maintenance
Mechanical failures and poor maintenance contribute to truck accidents. For example, worn-out brakes can prevent a vehicle from stopping in time, leading to collisions. Worn tires risk blowing out at high speeds. Truck companies have a duty to conduct regular vehicle maintenance.
Improperly Loaded Cargo
When cargo is not loaded properly, it could shift in transit, causing the vehicle to be unstable or tip to one side. Additionally, cargo could fall or detach, risking the well-being of other road users.
Other Drivers Negligence
Non-truck drivers also contribute to accidents by cutting trucks off on the road, tailgating, or driving in blind spots. Other behaviors like sudden lane changing and speeding create very dangerous situations for trucks.
Weather Conditions
Sometimes, accidents are caused by poor weather conditions. Rain, fog, or snow can reduce visibility or cause slippery roads, making it hard for truck drivers to see clearly and control their vehicles. Other road hazards, like potholes and poorly marked roads, can increase the risk of accidents.
How to Prevent Semi-Truck Accidents
Here are some measures that can lower the risk of accidents:
- Drivers should stick to hours of service to reduce driving when fatigued.
- All trucks should undergo regular maintenance to replace worn-out parts and spot mechanical issues earlier.
- Drivers should undergo strict training to be prepared for all situations.
- There should be more public awareness education about truck blind spots, the importance of maintaining safe distances, and how to be vigilant on the road.
- Roads should be properly maintained and clearly marked.
Conclusion
Semi-truck accidents are still a major concern. However, most of these incidents can be prevented through the combined efforts of truck drivers, companies, policymakers, and other drivers in general. This will ensure all roads are safe for everyone.
