1-800-964-0361
Traffic accidents are constantly occurring in the United States every day and many of these accidents involve some type of transport truck whether it is a box truck or an 18-wheeler. People are killed, severely injured, or able to walk away with just a few scratches. There are many reasons for this type of accident. Here are the five most common causes of accidents involving trucks.
1. Vehicle Defect
While truck drivers are supposed to have their brakes, lights, horns, and all that other testing on a regular basis to ensure the safety of the driver and those involved, it doesn’t always make it possible to predict a tire blowing out on the road or damage done to the axles. A truck can suffer a detached wheel, brakes go out, defective hitches, or loads that are not secure and fall off of the truck. All of these can cause accidents to anyone that is around them when the problem begins.
2. Improper Truck Maintenance
Truck maintenance exists to protect the driver and everyone else on the road. If a truck is not maintained on a regular basis, it becomes a moving hazard as it goes down the road. Truck drivers are required to check the following items on their truck in order to comply with the National Safety Standards:
• Brakes
• Electrical system
• Tires and wheels
• Couplers and hitches
• Steering
• Instruments and equipment
• Lamps
If something isn’t working during the inspection, it is to be fixed immediately prior to them getting back on the road. Failing to do so can result in an accident occurring. That is why you might need to consult an Injury Lawyer in Barrie.
3. Drunk Driving
Drunk driving isn’t something you want to hear or think about when it comes to the driver being in a cab of a big semi but it does occur more often than one might think. When alcohol is involved, it makes it difficult for the driver to think rationally and become incapable of handling the big rig as he or she should. Driving a big truck under the influence can cause:
• A slower reaction time
• The inability to stay coordinated and work the controls as well as the steering
• Decreases the concentration needed to make good judgment while driving
• Decreases vision
4. Driver Fatigue
One of the biggest complaints of over-the-road truck drivers is that they go so long without any sleep. While driving long hours makes the money, they may not be around to enjoy it when the fall asleep at the wheel and end up dying. Because of this, there are very strict rules and guidelines that truckers must follow in order to stay on the road.
5. Driver Error
Rules of the road should be followed by truck drivers as well as motorists. If a violation occurs, then this could cause an accident that can not only be devastating to the truck driver and his/her family but also all those around him/her. The most common violations issued to truck drivers on the road include:
• Speeding
• Running lights
• Distraction
• Following too closely
• Improper lane change
• Road rage
• Neglecting to check blind spots