Semi-truck accidents are often deadly. At least 300 deaths and more than 15,000 injuries are linked to large truck accidents each year.
As a driver, knowing the top causes of truck accidents will help you stay safe on the road. When you are aware of what could happen, you can take steps to avoid a traumatic crash.
If you want to keep yourself and your passengers safe, keep reading. Here are 5 common causes of semi-truck accidents.
1. Substance Abuse
Unfortunately, it is common for truck drivers to use alcohol and drugs while on the job. Drivers use substances to avoid boredom and stay awake. Some suffer from untreated addiction.
Alcohol and other drugs can be lethal on the road. They result in poor coordination and slow reflexes. It is difficult for drivers to react to unexpected obstacles while under the influence.
Even legally prescribed drugs can have physical effects and lead to impaired judgment.
2. Driving While Tired
Fatigue is one of the most common causes of truck accidents. Truckers work long hours and face stressful time constraints.
They drive for multiple days in a row, and their sleeping conditions are poor. Truck stops are noisy and bright.
It is difficult to focus when you’re tired. Some drivers even fall asleep at the wheel. When this happens, it can be deadly for everyone around.
3. Speeding
Truck drivers work on a tight schedule. Even when driving conditions are ideal, they might hurry to arrive at their destination. Speeding is common.
Dangerous conditions such as bad weather and winding roads make things worse. It’s hard to slow an out of control vehicle that weighs tens of thousands of pounds.
This creates a risky situation for other drivers. They may not be able to get out of the way fast enough to avoid a wreck.
4. Ignoring Truck Maintenance
Semi-trucks should be inspected before each trip for mechanical and safety issues. But time is valuable, so drivers tend to skip this step and assume their truck is fine.
Additionally, some drivers are not trained adequately to notice problems. When a large truck fails on the road, the driver often loses control. There is no simple way to regain control of a tractor-trailer.
5. Distractions
Texting or making phone calls while driving takes the driver’s attention away from their job. Even adjusting the radio volume is hard to do safely in a large truck.
Daydreaming can also distract truckers from their main priority – watching the road. A preoccupied driver is a dangerous driver.
What to Do if You Are Involved in a Semi-Truck Accident
If you experience a semi-truck accident, seek medical attention first. It’s also important to call a truck accident lawyer right away. They can help you learn about truck accidents and how to get the compensation you deserve.
Stay Alert to Avoid Semi-Truck Accidents
When you are on the road, stay alert to avoid semi-truck accidents. Not all truck drivers are trustworthy. Many are tired, distracted, or under the influence of alcohol and drugs.
Victims of semi-truck crashes should seek legal advice as soon as possible. A law firm will provide the support you need to heal from your distressing experience.
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