Trucking accidents are among the most severe collisions on Texas roads, often resulting in significant injuries or fatalities. Given the size and weight of commercial trucks, these accidents can leave a lasting impact on victims and their families. Understanding the common causes of trucking accidents can help drivers stay vigilant and take steps to avoid dangerous situations. Here’s a closer look at the key factors that often lead to these devastating incidents.
1. Driver Fatigue
Fatigue is a major contributor to trucking accidents. Despite federal regulations limiting the number of hours a truck driver can operate without rest, some drivers exceed these limits to meet tight delivery deadlines. Fatigue reduces reaction times, impairs decision-making, and increases the likelihood of falling asleep at the wheel. For other drivers on the road, the presence of an exhausted trucker can create a dangerous and unpredictable situation.
2. Distracted Driving
Distractions are another leading cause of trucking accidents. Whether it’s texting, eating, adjusting a GPS, or even using onboard technology, distracted driving takes a trucker’s attention away from the road. Given the complexity of operating a commercial truck, even a momentary lapse in focus can lead to catastrophic consequences, especially at high speeds or in heavy traffic.
3. Mechanical Failures and Poor Maintenance
Commercial trucks require regular maintenance to ensure they are safe to operate. Brake failures, tire blowouts, and engine malfunctions are just a few examples of mechanical issues that can lead to accidents. In some cases, these failures result from inadequate maintenance by trucking companies or mechanics. Holding these parties accountable is an essential part of pursuing a claim after an accident caused by mechanical failure.
4. Speeding and Reckless Driving
Pressure to meet delivery schedules can lead truck drivers to speed or engage in reckless driving behaviors, such as tailgating or making unsafe lane changes. Due to their size and weight, trucks take longer to stop and are more difficult to control in emergency situations. Speeding increases the risk of rollover accidents, jackknifing, and collisions with smaller vehicles, often with devastating results.
5. Improper Loading
The way cargo is loaded onto a truck can significantly affect its stability and handling. Overloading or improperly securing cargo can cause the truck to become unbalanced, leading to rollover accidents or the cargo spilling onto the roadway. In these cases, liability may extend beyond the driver to include the company responsible for loading the truck.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident, determining the cause is a critical step in pursuing compensation. At Spagnoletti Law Firm, we can investigate the circumstances of the accident, identify all responsible parties, and help you navigate the legal process. Contact us today at 713-804-9306 to schedule a consultation. Trucking companies and their insurers often act quickly to protect their interests, and having experienced representation on your side can make all the difference.