Commercial trucks are big vehicles. Under federal regulations, they can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, which is 20-40 times heavier than many passenger vehicles. Unsurprisingly, these commercial trucks can cause horrific injuries when they slam into smaller vehicles.
What are the most common reasons for truck accidents? Helpfully, the federal government performed a big safety study about 10 years ago that identified the leading risk factors that contribute to crashes. Below are some of the most common.
Brake Problems
Because they are so big, commercial vehicles like 18 wheelers or tractor trailers, box trucks and other large vehicles are difficult to stop once they get going which is why it’s critical to have your brakes inspected and serviced on a regular basis. If brakes fail, then a truck can easily collide with several vehicles and could even crash into a building. These types of “runaway” trucks are very difficult to stop.
Driving Too Fast for Conditions
Truckers are under intense pressure to make deliveries in a timely manner. As a result, some of them drive much too fast for the current road conditions. For example, if there is snow or ice on the road, then a truck driver should go much slower. Unfortunately, too many drivers speed.
Lack of Familiarity with Roadway
Unfamiliarity with a road can lead to driving errors. Also, truckers might be trying to figure out where they are headed and overlook a vehicle right in front of them.
Over-the-Counter Drugs
You might think cocaine or heroin are the big problem drugs. But OTC drugs can cause drivers to become drowsy or confused. Other drugs, like No-Doze, allow truckers to drive much too long, even when they are tired. One reason OTC drugs are such a problem is that employers test for alcohol and drugs like marijuana but not drugs sold over the counter.
Driver Inattention
Commercial truck drivers become distracted just like everyone else. New regulations have been put in place to limit a driver’s ability to use a handheld cell phone, but a driver can still lose focus, especially when traveling long distances.
Driver Fatigue
Tired truckers are a serious health hazard, leading to many horrible injuries. For this reason, the federal government strictly limits how much truckers can drive in a 24 hour period. However, some drivers drive too much, leading to fatigue and judgment errors.
Injured in a Truck Accident? Call Us
If you are holed up in the hospital or at home after a truck accident, you are probably concerned about how you will pay for your medical care and replace your lost income. We can help.
The Miami truck accident lawyers at Dolan Dobrinsky Rosenblum Bluestein have years of experience helping injured victims just like you. Please call 305-371-2692 to schedule a free consultation.