Major Causes of Commercial Vehicle Accidents

Commercial and passenger vehicles share the road. However, commercial trucks are typically bigger than passenger vehicles. Thus, when an accident happens, people in vehicles are more vulnerable to major car injuries and death. But what causes these accidents? Awareness of all drivers of the primary causes of vehicular collisions can help them formulate a way to avoid it.

Passenger vehicle driver’s fault

1.    Swerving in front of a truck driver - It can be harder for a large truck to decrease its speed. Thus, the driver needs certain time and distance before it can entirely stop the vehicle. When a vehicle suddenly changes lane, it can easily result in a truck accident. Surpassing a truck imposes the same risks.

2.    Driving in a blind spot - Many passenger vehicle drivers do not take into account that truck drivers have limited visibility of vehicles at his back. When a driver cannot see the side mirror of a truck, then it also means that the truck driver cannot see them. Keeping a close distance may result in an impact if the truck’s maneuver or stops not knowing there is a vehicle behind him. A driver must not try to race or blocked a truck trying to turn.

Commercial truck driver’s fault

1.    Tiredness and fatigue - There is a federal regulation that limits the amount of time allowed for a truck driver to stay on the road. However, many employers still pushed their drivers to extend this assigned time to make quick deliveries. Thus, tendencies of drivers falling asleep while driving is prevalent which are extremely dangerous.

2.    Overloading - The load of the vehicle can affect its speed, performance, and steering. Its tires are only built to carry a certain amount of weight, and a blowout could lead to many undesired possibilities. It may cause the truck to plunge and lose its load all over the road which leads to numerous disasters depending on the goods it carries.

3.    Inadequate or improper truck maintenance - The overall truck state is essential. Even a careful driver that is using a defective vehicle can end up in an accident. Regular checking of brakes and tire condition are needed before long travel.

4.    Distracted driving - Texting or calling while driving is prohibited, but it is still common. Most drivers also do multitasking because they need to deliver their cargo at a specified time. They tend to eat, drink, and shave while driving. However, just a small time of taking their eyes off the road is still enough to put them and others in danger.

5.    Weather and road conditions - Even if a driver is beyond the speed limit, it can still be dangerous when the road is slippery because it is icy, snowy, or wet. Moreover, hazards arise if the area is foggy adding up an unknown road condition. Some road shoulders are blocked, and huge trucks may fail to estimate the space and causes collision.  

6.    Inadequate or improper training - The size and length of a commercial vehicle needed enough skill to be able to manipulate it safely. The driver must know enough spacing with other vehicles, calculate a safe speed, proper turning, and know how to handle their load safely.

Even if it is the truck or the passenger vehicle driver’s fault, commercial vehicle accident is treated differently than accidents that involve smaller vehicles. Truck accident attorney is needed to thoroughly investigate the collision and determine fair compensation for both the drivers and the victims. Lawyers for accidents ensures that you do not agree to a settlement that is not beneficial for you.