Common Truck Accident Causes

Because of their enormous size, semi-trucks and other commercial vehicles can cause devastating damage in the event of a collision, as smaller passenger-sized vehicles offer far less protection to their occupants. While it’s not possible to completely eliminate the possibility of being involved in a crash, understanding the factors that can cause them can go a long way towards helping drivers stay safe on Florida roads.

Distracted Driving

Truck drivers spend a lot of time on the road and in order to meet deadlines are often forced to eat meals and perform similar tasks while driving. Multitasking while driving is always dangerous, but is particularly perilous for truck drivers, who need to focus all of their attention on driving and their surroundings. Other common distractions include texting, talking on the phone, checking social media, or even watching videos. These types of activities continue to be a major concern despite the fact that many of them are unlawful under both state and federal law.

Poor Vehicle Maintenance

Trucking companies are responsible for providing their drivers with safe, properly functioning trucks. Truck drivers are also required to conduct safety inspections of their vehicles before taking long trips. Despite these requirements, many of the trucks on the road have faulty electrical systems, bald tires, or defective braking systems, along with other parts that could be worn down and close to failure. When an accident can be linked to this type of negligent maintenance, injured parties could be entitled to compensation for their losses.

Impaired Driving

Because they spend so many hours on the road, many truck drivers take stimulants to help them stay awake on long trips. Eventually, however, these stimulants wear off, leaving drivers even more tired than they were before. Others may depend on prescription medications that cause drowsiness, while some may consume alcohol or illegal drugs to overcome pain, exhaustion, or boredom. Any of these activities can be dangerous, increasing the risk for other drivers of being involved in a collision with a truck driver who is impaired or who has nodded off behind the wheel.

Overloading

There are strict rules on how much a commercial truck can carry and how that cargo must be loaded. Unfortunately, some trucking companies purposely overload trucks in order to maximize profits. Doing so, however, can have a significant impact on the balance of the truck, even affecting a driver’s ability to turn or stop suddenly without rolling over.

Poor Weather

Driving in bad weather is rarely a good idea. Poor weather conditions, however, are particularly dangerous for truck drivers. Wet or icy roads are slippery and can affect a driver’s control and ability to see other vehicles. Fog can impair visibility, especially at night. Heavy winds can also cause commercial trucks to sway, further increasing the risk of a crash.

Seek Reimbursement for Your Truck Accident Losses

At Anderson & Anderson, our legal team has over 40 years of experience helping Florida accident victims recover the compensation they deserve. If you were hurt in a truck accident, one of our skilled Tampa truck accident lawyers can help you attempt to recover your losses, either by entering into settlement negotiations or by filing a lawsuit.

Sources:

fmcsa.dot.gov/safety/driver-safety/cmv-driving-tips-driver-distraction

fmcsa.dot.gov/regulations/cargo-securement/cargo-securement-rules