Traffic fatalities have been on the rise the past few years, with truck accidents remaining at the top of the heap. That’s right, a significant number of deaths are attributed to accidents with commercial trucks. Due to their sheer weight and size, commercial truck accidents
have a significantly higher fatality rate. Even in the event the victim makes it out alive, they end up suffering permanent disability or other life-altering injuries. Sadly, many commercial trucking accidents have been somewhat preventable.
Improper Maintenance and Training
Commercial drivers must pass strict driving regulations and professional training, as their trucks must meet frequent maintenance requirements. Sadly, commercial drivers (and their trucks) take on tasks their truck has met safety qualifications. In the event the rig hasn’t been maintained adequately (or the driver has not received proper training), it may lead to an accident.
Driving Distractions
As for commercial truckers, distracted driving is a serious issue and one of the main causes of vehicular accidents. Even professional drivers face the temptations of devices and other mobile technology. When spending long hours on the road, finding a quick distraction (such as looking at a cell phone) can cause a fatal accident on the roadway.
Habitual Unsafe Driving
What is unsafe driving? Well, speeding can be an unsafe habit that can result in death. Many truck drivers must rush to meet deadlines, which causes them to speed or drive too fast in dangerous road conditions. This can lead to unsafe lane changes or following other vehicles too closely. Switching lanes is a major concern for trucks. The truck drivers must be aware of the other vehicles in their close proximity, since they are dealing with significantly larger blind spots in comparison to other vehicles on the road.
Substance Abuse
It’s common knowledge that commercial truck drivers must adhere to the safety of other drivers on the road, but there are still a few who ignore their duty and engage in substance abuse. Driving under the influence for commercial truck drivers is not unheard of, which is why some preventable accidents are due to truck drivers being impaired by drugs or alcohol. In certain scenarios, legally prescribed drugs the truck driver’s judgment, reaction time, or distance perception.
Fatigue
Across the country, driving while one is drowsy or fatigued is a common cause of commercial truck driving accidents. Commercial drivers are subjected to regulations called “hours of service”, which were created to limit hours spent driving so that the driver can take a rest and remain sharp when they’re driving. Sadly, some truck drivers ignore this protocol to meet their strict deadline when transporting cargo from point A to point B. The end result of this leads to highways filled with drivers operating large machinery, as other drivers are completely unaware of the danger. Experts have agreed that fatigued drivers are almost as dangerous as intoxicated drivers.
When To Hire a Truck Accident Attorney
The best time to hire a truck accident attorney would be as soon as possible. The faster you act on finding a truck accident attorney, the faster they can act on preparing your case for judges. This way, fault can be proved by all parties involved and you can receive the damages you deserve in order to recover. Compensation is critical in such scenarios, as it provides you with the resources necessary for the best care.
Commercial truck accidents can be painful, confusing, stressful, and overwhelming for a victim to take on alone. Thankfully, an experienced truck accident attorney can take on the daunting task of seeking compensation from a truck company.
What Truck Accident Attorneys Do
In addition to fighting for your justice, truck accident attorneys gather vital evidence, medical reports, police reports, and reports from relevant witnesses. They’re willing to bring in experts, engineers, economists, and recreationists who are willing to prove the severity of your case and injuries. They’re willing to walk you through the process and help you decide what’s best for you and your case.
Considering the information above, there are plenty of reasons why one should be extra cautious with truck drivers on the road – and what one should do in the event they’re involved in an accident with one. Thankfully, we’re here to do exactly that. Contact us today in the event you’ve been injured in an accident with a large truck.
