While car accidents are dangerous and very common, commercial truck accidents are some of the worst that can happen. Due to their size, it’s extremely difficult to stop the vehicle on time.
So, trucks are very dangerous, both to the driver and to the other traffic participants. Any small driving error or a lack of attention from the driver in front of you could result in a tragedy.
Knowing what usually causes a truck accident is a great way to make sure you prevent one from happening. Here are some common causes of truck accidents:
1. Aggressive Driving
Truck drivers may be under a lot of stress, especially considering they have to travel very long distances and they have a huge responsibility on their shoulders.
Not only do they have to keep the merchandise safe, but they must also make their deliveries on time, which could lead to a lot of stress and road rage.
As such, they may end up being quite aggressive on the road and may drive too close to another driver, cutting them off, and many other things. Consequently, they may end up getting injured or hurting the other traffic participants.
2. Distracted Driving
When people are driving such long distances and are on the road for so long, it is easy to get distracted. This is especially true if the driver is exhausted and finds it hard to focus on the road.
Distracted driving is not only dangerous, but it is also illegal. No matter what, a truck driver should not take their eyes off the road, whether it’s for two seconds or more.
Some drivers may use their phones, close their eyes or pay attention to something on the side of the road, which can cost them a lot, both financially and physically.
3. Speeding
Despite driving large vehicles and knowing that speed is not ideal on the road, many truck drivers end up speeding. Even though many large trucking companies use speed trackers or limiters on their vehicles, not all companies have this technology.
So, drivers end up speeding, and this is very dangerous considering the size of a truck compared to a passenger vehicle. The large truck has a slower reaction to a quick direction or speed changes.
In case the truck driver has to stop or avoid something on the road, they will be in danger of crashing into something and injuring themselves and/or other drivers. This is a very common reason why truck accidents happen.
4. Bad Weather
Severe weather conditions also lead to many truck accidents as reduced visibility will make it hard for drivers to control large vehicles. Elements like fog, wind, snow, rain, or ice can make it harder for the individual to drive safely and may result in accidents.
The Bottom Line
Knowing the common causes of truck accidents may allow you to avoid causing one or being the victim of one. But if you ever get into an accident, you should hire a truck accident lawyer to guide you through the situation.