Commercial vehicle accidents are a significant concern in many parts of the world, including the United States. In 2020 alone, there were over 4,700 fatalities resulting from crashes involving large trucks in the US. These misfortunes can result in significant property damage, injuries, and deaths, so understanding the causes of commercial vehicle accidents is essential. In such accidents, a big rig accident lawyer can be most helpful.
Driver Error
Driver error is one of the most common reasons for commercial vehicle accidents. Drivers may be distracted, tired, or under the influence of drugs or alcohol, impairing their ability to operate their vehicles safely. Additionally, drivers may be speeding, driving aggressively, or failing to follow traffic laws, all of which can lead to calamities.
Equipment Failure
Equipment failure is another definitive cause of commercial vehicle accidents. Commercial vehicles such as trucks and buses are subject to rigorous maintenance requirements, and failure to properly maintain them can result in crashes. Equipment failures can include problems with brakes, tires, steering systems, and other critical components. In some cases, manufacturers may also be responsible for defects that lead to accidents.
Weather Conditions
Weather conditions can contribute to accidents. Rain, snow, ice, and fog can make driving conditions more hazardous, especially for larger vehicles. Commercial drivers must be aware of their driving conditions and adjust their driving accordingly. They must also ensure that their automobiles have appropriate safety features, such as anti-lock brakes, to help prevent accidents.
Road Conditions
Poor road conditions can contribute to calamities. Potholes, uneven pavement, and other hazards can cause vehicles to lose control, especially at high speeds. Additionally, construction zones and other roadwork areas can pose significant risks to drivers. Commercial drivers must remain alert and aware of road conditions and adjust their driving accordingly to reduce the risk of accidents.
Overloading
Overloading is a typical cause of commercial vehicle accidents. When loaded beyond their capacity, vehicles can become unstable and difficult to control, especially when braking or turning. Overloading can also cause tire blowouts, which can result in accidents. Commercial drivers must ensure that their vehicles are loaded within their specified weight limits, and that cargo is secured correctly to prevent overloading.
Lack of Training
Training can contribute to accidents. Drivers require specialized training to operate large vehicles safely. This training should cover defensive driving, vehicle maintenance, and cargo handling. Not adequately trained drivers may be more likely to make mistakes that can lead to accidents.
Fatigue
Fatigue is a cause of commercial vehicle accidents. Long hours on the road can be exhausting, and commercial drivers may be more prone to fatigue than other drivers. Exhaustion can significantly impair a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely and increase the risk of accidents. Fatigue can cause delayed reaction time and increase the risk of accidents, especially at high speeds. Moreover, a tired driver may be more likely to take unnecessary risks, such as attempting to pass a vehicle in a no-passing zone or driving too fast for the road conditions. Lastly, tiredness can also cause microsleeps that last just a few seconds. If a driver experiences a microsleep while driving, they may lose control of the vehicle and cause an accident.
To prevent fatigue-related accidents, drivers must take regular breaks and ensure they get enough rest between shifts.
How can an accident lawyer help?
In a commercial vehicle accident, it is crucial to seek the help of an experienced big rig accident lawyer. These attorneys specialize in handling commercial vehicle accident lawsuits and understand the complex legal issues that may arise. They can help victims in the legal process, negotiate with insurance companies, and seek fair settlements for their injuries and damages. They can also investigate the accident to determine the reason and identify any parties liable. By working with a skilled big rig accident lawyer, accident victims can focus on their recovery while their lawyer works to protect their rights.
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Conclusion
Commercial vehicle accidents can have devastating consequences. By understanding the causes of these accidents, drivers, fleet managers, and manufacturers can take steps to deter them.