Understanding the Common Causes of Trucking Accidents

Trucking accidents are a significant concern on our roadways, often resulting in severe injuries due to the sheer size and weight of commercial trucks. Understanding the common causes of such accidents is crucial for both prevention and legal accountability. From driver fatigue and distracted driving to vehicle maintenance issues and adverse weather conditions, various factors contribute to the high incidence of trucking accidents. This article explores the most frequent causes of trucking accidents, shedding light on how they happen and how to deal with the aftermath of such situations.

Truck Accident Causes

Understanding the common causes of truck accidents can help prevent them and determine liability in personal injury claims. Here are some of the most frequent causes of truck accidents:

Fatigue—truck drivers often work long hours and may exceed legal driving limits, leading to fatigue. Fatigued drivers have impaired judgment, slower reaction times, and a higher risk of falling asleep at the wheel.

Distracted driving—using mobile phones, eating, adjusting the radio, or other distractions can divert a truck driver's attention from the road.

Speeding—driving above the speed limit or too fast for road conditions is a major cause of accidents. The stopping distance for a truck is much greater than that of a passenger vehicle, making speeding particularly dangerous.

Impaired driving—alcohol, drugs (including prescription medications), and other substances can impair a driver's ability to operate a truck safely.

Ensuring proper training for drivers and adherence to safety regulations are essential steps in reducing the frequency and severity of trucking accidents.

Who Is Liable for a Truck Accident?

Determining liability in a truck accident can be complex due to the involvement of multiple parties and various contributing factors. We briefly outlined common causes if the driver was at fault; however, other parties, such as maintenance companies or government entities, can also be held responsible. Trucks require regular maintenance to ensure they are in safe operating condition. Brake failures, tire blowouts, and other mechanical issues can lead to serious accidents. Overloaded or improperly loaded cargo can also be a contributing factor. Exceeding weight limits or improper distribution of cargo can affect a truck's stability and handling, increasing the risk of rollovers and other types of accidents. Furthermore, faulty manufacturing or design defects in truck parts can cause accidents.

Let’s not forget about environmental factors. Fog, rain, snow, ice, and high winds can make driving more challenging. Reduced visibility and slippery roads increase the likelihood of accidents. Additionally, potholes, uneven pavement, lack of signage, and construction zones can contribute to trucking accidents.

Shared liability in a truck accident can be quite tricky as determining fault requires a comprehensive investigation of the circumstances surrounding the accident. Victims of truck accidents often benefit from legal representation to navigate the complexities of liability and ensure they receive fair and just compensation for their injuries and damages.

How Much Does a Truck Accident Attorney Charge?

At this point, it should be obvious why you need a truck accident lawyer if you've been injured in such an incident. Fortunately, most injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. In other words, clients do not pay any upfront costs; the attorney typically takes a percentage of the settlement or court award. This arrangement aligns the attorney's interests with the client's, as opposed to the limited support offered by insurance companies.

Insurance companies often make quick settlement offers to victims shortly after an accident. These offers are usually much lower than what the victim might be entitled to, and they aim to settle the claim before the full extent of the injuries and damages are known. Relying solely on insurance companies after an accident can lead to inadequate compensation and added stress for injured victims.

Injured in North Hollywood or San Fernando?

Instead of figuring out what to do after a truck accident, contact a local personal injury law firm for guidance. As a trusted legal advisor since 1998, Yepremyan Law Firm provides free consultations to ensure injured victims receive the help they need. At our firm, our attorneys not only work on a contingency basis but also advance all legal costs until the case is settled. Contact our office today to book an appointment with one of our North Hollywood truck accident attorneys or request to be connected to a San Fernando personal injury attorney. Your path to justice starts here.

*No Legal Advice Intended. This website includes general information about legal issues and developments in the law. These materials have been prepared for general informational purposes only and are not intended to be legal advice. Please consult an attorney for legal advice pertaining to any particular legal matter. Use of and access to this website or any of the links or resources contained within the site do not create an attorney-client relationship between the reader, user, or browser and Yepremyan Law Firm and any of its attorneys, employees, or associates.