Six Common Causes of Commercial Trucking Accidents
Commercial trucks are vital to America’s economy, transporting goods across the country every day. However, their massive size and weight make them dangerous on the road, especially when safety regulations are ignored. Despite strict federal and state laws aimed at reducing the risk of accidents, commercial trucking accidents still occur far too often, often due to negligence.
If you’ve been involved in a commercial truck accident, understanding the common causes can help you build a strong case. Here are six leading causes of trucking accidents and what you can do to protect yourself.
1. Brake Failure
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) found that brake failure is a leading cause of trucking accidents. A fully loaded commercial truck requires much more braking distance than a passenger vehicle. For example:
- A passenger car traveling at 65 mph needs about 316 feet to stop.
- A fully loaded semi-truck at the same speed requires 525 feet to come to a halt.
Brake failure can occur due to:
- Poor maintenance
- Defective brake components
- Overloaded cargo
2. Speeding
Speeding accounts for 23% of all commercial trucking accidents. Truck drivers often speed to meet tight delivery deadlines or stay ahead of schedule. Considering the size and weight of these vehicles, speeding significantly increases the risk of catastrophic collisions.
3. Driver Fatigue
13% of trucking accidents involve fatigued drivers. Federal hours-of-service regulations limit:
- Driving to 11 consecutive hours after 10 hours off duty.
- Total driving hours to 60-70 hours over seven or eight consecutive days.
Despite these rules, truckers may ignore limits due to:
- Pressure from employers
- Tight schedules
- Lack of available drivers
Fatigued driving reduces reaction times and decision-making abilities, increasing the risk of crashes.
4. Impaired Driving
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol remains a significant issue. Federal regulations require trucking companies to:
- Conduct drug and alcohol testing during hiring.
- Test drivers after accidents.
Impairment, whether from alcohol or illegal substances, can lead to poor judgment, slower reaction times, and deadly outcomes.
5. Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is responsible for 27% of trucking accidents. Long hours on the road can lead to boredom, causing drivers to:
- Use mobile phones
- Adjust in-cab devices
- Engage in other distractions
Distracted driving is one of the most preventable causes of trucking accidents but continues to pose a significant danger.
6. Trucker Error
Driver negligence includes:
- Following vehicles too closely
- Illegal driving maneuvers
- Failing to check blind spots
- Forcing their way through traffic
Truckers must follow specific safety protocols to avoid accidents. When they fail to do so, the consequences can be catastrophic.
Other Contributing Factors
While driver error is a common cause, other factors also contribute to trucking accidents, including:
- Traffic flow interruptions
- Inexperienced drivers
- Aggressive driving
- Improper cargo loading
- Vehicle malfunctions
- Poor roadway design
What to Do After an Accident with a Commercial Truck
If you’re involved in a trucking accident, follow these steps to protect your rights and strengthen your potential claim:
1. Contact 911
Report the accident immediately. Ensure everyone involved receives medical attention.
2. Document the Accident Scene
- Take photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, and injuries.
- Record details about the truck’s speed, traffic conditions, and weather.
3. Speak with the Police
Provide factual information about the accident but avoid admitting fault.
4. Seek Medical Treatment
Even if you feel fine, visit a medical professional to rule out hidden injuries. Keep records of medical bills and reports as evidence.
5. Contact a Trucking Accident Attorney
A trucking accident lawyer can:
- Preserve valuable evidence
- Request driver logs and maintenance records
- Handle communication with insurance companies
Why You Need an Attorney
Trucking companies and their insurers often have aggressive legal teams working to minimize payouts. An experienced truck accident attorney can:
- Investigate the accident thoroughly
- Identify all liable parties, including the driver, trucking company, or manufacturers
- Negotiate a fair settlement or take your case to court
Contact LA Law Group Today
If you or a loved one has been involved in a trucking accident, the consequences can be life-changing. At LA Law Group, our experienced attorneys are committed to helping accident victims recover the compensation they deserve.
During your free case strategy session, we’ll:
- Review the details of your case
- Answer your questions
- Explain your legal options
Whether or not you choose to work with us, you’ll leave with a clear understanding of your rights and the steps you can take. If you decide to hire us, we’ll immediately begin building a strong case to hold all responsible parties accountable.
Contact LA Law Group today to schedule your no-obligation consultation and let us fight for the compensation you deserve.
