Due to the massive size and weight of commercial vehicles, truck accidents can be devastating. If you have been injured in a trucking accident, establishing liability is crucial for recovering compensation. Below, we discuss the most common causes of trucking accidents and how a skilled personal injury attorney can help you navigate your claim.
How Does Human Error Contribute to Trucking Accidents?
Human error is a significant factor in many trucking accidents. Drivers, being human, can make mistakes that can be deadly when operating a large truck. Common causes of trucking accidents due to human error include:
- Fatigue: Truck drivers often work long hours, leading to fatigue. Exhausted drivers have slower reaction times and are more likely to fall asleep at the wheel.
- Distracted Driving: Using mobile phones, eating, or even adjusting the radio can divert a driver’s attention. Even a few seconds of distraction can result in a severe accident.
- Speeding: Trucks require longer distances to stop due to their mass. Speeding reduces the reaction time and the ability to stop quickly, leading to collisions.
- Impaired Driving: Alcohol, drugs, and even some prescription medications can impair a driver’s ability to operate a truck safely. This remains a serious issue, despite stringent regulations.
- Inexperience: Newer drivers may lack the experience needed to handle large trucks under various conditions, leading to mistakes and accidents.
What Role Do Mechanical Failures Play in Trucking Accidents?
Mechanical failures are another critical cause of trucking accidents. Even with rigorous maintenance schedules, mechanical issues can still arise. Examples of mechanical failures that can lead to trucking accidents include:
- Brake Failures: Trucks rely heavily on their braking systems. A failure here can lead to the truck being unable to stop, causing devastating accidents.
- Tire Blowouts: Blowouts can cause a driver to lose control. Regular tire maintenance is essential, but road debris and wear can lead to unexpected blowouts.
- Steering and Suspension Issues: Problems with steering or suspension can make controlling the truck difficult, particularly at high speeds or in adverse conditions.
- Engine Failures: An engine failure, especially at high speeds, can be catastrophic. Loss of power or control can lead to severe accidents.
- Lighting and Visibility Problems: Proper lighting is crucial for visibility. Malfunctioning lights can result in other drivers not seeing the truck or the truck driver not seeing obstacles.
Determining Liability in Trucking Accidents
An attorney can assess the circumstances of your case to determine the liable party. In some cases, it may be the trucker or their truck company. In other cases, it may be the party responsible for regularly inspecting or maintaining the truck. In some instances, it may even be the designers or manufacturers of faulty truck parts. Still, other crashes may be related to the manner in which the broker selected a particular company to transport a load.
If you have further questions or believe you have a valid truck accident claim, please don’t hesitate to contact our experienced personal injury attorneys today. At Casper & de Toledo, we are here to help you navigate the complexities of your case and work towards securing the compensation you deserve.
