In recent years, research has indicated that trucking accidents are happening far more frequently than we originally thought. While many of the accidents that take place today can be blamed on distraction or negligence on the part of the at-fault driver, there are a host of other factors that can lead to accidents. In fact, many of the underlying causes of large truck accidents are preventable. In 2014 alone, there were more than 500,000 large truck and commercial vehicle accidents. Due to the sheer size and weight of these types of vehicles, accidents that involve trucks are oftentimes devastating and life-changing for everyone involved. All commercial truck drivers are required to undergo a training regiment that will prepare them for all different road conditions and situations. However, accidents still do happen at an alarming rate.
In order to better understand why trucking accidents occur at all, let’s take a look at some of the top causes of these types of incidents:
- Driver Error
As with other types of accidents, driver error is one of the leading causes of trucking accidents in the United States. In fact, driver error is 10 times more likely to cause an accident than any other factor, according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Some of the factors that may result in an accident include driver fatigue, distraction, or substance abuse.
- Speeding
Speeding is another common cause of trucking accidents, and one that could easily be prevented if speed limits were adhered to. Speed is found to be a factor in nearly 25 percent of all large truck accidents, which highlights what a serious problem this is.
- Equipment Failure or Malfunction
Whether a design or manufacturing error, equipment failures are another of the most common causes of trucking accidents. Manufacturing errors such as defective tires or failure to provide reverse-detection warning devices are just a couple of the issues we typically see. It should also be noted that while many equipment failures are due to a manufacturing error, some also take place because the truck driver or company does not perform a pre-trip inspection, as required.
- Vehicle Blind Spots
Last but certainly not least, vehicle blind spots are another factor that contributes to serious truck accidents. While truck drivers are trained on checking blind spots and all sides of the vehicle before making any turns, switching lanes, or performing any other maneuvers, this training is oftentimes neglected.
It is important to keep in mind that the majority of trucking accidents are preventable with proper driver training, adherence to safety procedures, and preventative vehicle maintenance. If you or a loved one has been involved in a trucking accident of any kind, please contact an attorney from our McKinney law office today.