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There are thousands of truck accidents occurring across the country, and do you ever wonder
what the most common causes of these accidents are? While many of the reasons for accidents
taking place are obvious, there are a few which may surprise you. Today, we’re going to share
the most common causes of truck accidents in the U.S., all of which will require the help of
Nooney, Roberts, Hewett & Nowicki law firm. Our attorneys and team have the specialized
skills, experience, and resources necessary to assist you in obtaining a full recovery if you are
involved in a truck or commercial motor vehicle crash.
Main Reason for a Truck Accident
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), eighty-eight percent of
truck-related crashes are due to driver’s error. But let’s not blame only the driver. Often the
trucking company does not train the driver correctly, properly maintain the trucks, or hire a thirdparty company.
Why do Truck Drivers Fail to Abide by the Laws of How Many Hours They are Allowed to
Drive in a Day?
Like most mistakes, it is due to fear. The consequences of losing their jobs, a decision is made,
and many innocent people pay for the driver’s choice.
Employers impose an ultimatum in no uncertain terms. This causes negligence on the driver and
the employer in the long run when fatigue sets in due to long hours on the road and not taking
adequate rest days or breaks. Because they succumb to exhaustion, the result is always the same:
lack of concentration, make fatal errors and run the risk of falling asleep at the wheel of an
80,000-pound vehicle. Our firm’s goals and passion are to educate and protect the innocent.
Technology and Its Role in Truck Driving Accidents
Truckers are causing accidents now more than ever due to the increased reliance on their
smartphones, which is distracted driving and is only getting worse. Any activity where you use
your phone that takes your attention off the road is considered distracted driving. This can be
using your phone to change or scroll through music, talking or texting on your device, and
checking or participating in social media while operating a vehicle. Drivers drive long hours, and
it can be monotonous, but there is never an excuse to use your phone, eat meals, or do anything
else to keep you occupied while operating your vehicle. It is required to pull off the road for a
break to perform these tasks.
Drugs and Alcohol as Factors for Driving Truckers
After all the education and consequences, we are still driving while intoxicated, resulting in fatal accidents. With the combination of long hours and boredom, many truck drivers rely on drugs and alcohol to keep them awake and sadly entertained. Although all truck drivers are tested and monitored with strict regulations, this does not deter them and doesn’t mean everyone is driving safely. With the influence of drugs or alcohol, the results are that they are more likely to make dangerous lane changes, use increased speeds, and the inability to stop in an appropriate time frame.
Speeding in Truck Accidents
With the pressure for the truckers to work on strict deadlines or drop off a load before a store or
facility closes, they might try to obtain the goal by increasing their speeds. It is a significant
factor, and this, unfortunately, leads to many accidents on the road. The truck drivers’ pressure
often leads to fatal accidents, and small passenger cars are the most affected. Regardless if
you’re on the road in an 80,00-pound semi-truck or a car or motorcycle, abide by the speed limit
at all times, and this could save your life or someone else’s.
Truck Drivers and Their Responsibilities
Truck Maintenance, proper loading, and training the drivers are also essential in preventing
accidents. When a truck is involved in an accident, our legal team can ensure that the semi-truck
is roadworthy. Trucking companies are responsible for checking each vehicle before it heads out
on the road, but this is often skipped over. Our firm encourages victims to contact someone on
our team as soon as possible following the accident. The earlier you receive professional advice
from a seasoned semi-truck accident lawyer, you are more likely to have a successful claim and
receive the support you need.
Most Common Types of Mechanical Issues that May Result in a Truck Accident
▪ Brake failure
▪ Trailer hook up failure
▪ Loss of running lights or directional signals
▪ Tire blowouts and tire tread separation
▪ Truck engine overheating
▪ Truck transmission failure
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is tasked with regulating the
trucking industry for the safety of truck drivers and others on the road. FMCSA rules include
maximum hours of service to prevent accidents caused by driver fatigue. Additionally, the
truckers and carriers must comply with inspection, repair, and maintenance regulations. These
rules forbid any unsafe operation that will likely cause an accident or vehicle breakdown. The
FMCSA rules also maintain a list of parts and accessories necessary for safe operation that must
be present and in good condition. These parts include:
▪ Tires
▪ Brakes and brake system components
▪ Mirror
▪ Signal and lights
▪ Safety equipment
Call Nooney, Roberts, Hewett & Nowicki Today!
Injured in a truck accident? Call our office today for your free consultation at (904) 398-1992.
We will be awaiting your call!
