Typical Causes of Truck Accidents

Causes of Truck Accidents

While various factors, such as cargo discrepancies, improperly secured trailers, or adverse weather conditions, can contribute to truck accidents, driver error remains the primary cause.

Whether due to inattentiveness or disregarding basic traffic laws, most truck accidents are the result of human mistakes made by the truck driver or other road users.

Here are some common reasons why the trucking industry faces a high incidence of accidents:

Distracted Driving

Any activity that diverts a driver’s attention from the road—particularly those requiring both hands or full focus—is considered distracted driving.

Texting while driving is a prevalent form of cognitive distraction, where the driver’s focus shifts from driving to texting, impairing their ability to stay attentive. However, truck drivers can be distracted in various other ways as well.

• Cognitive Distractions: When a driver’s mental focus shifts from the road to another task.

• Visual Distractions: When a driver takes their eyes off the road to view something else.

• Manual Distractions: When a driver removes their hands from the steering wheel to engage in other activities.

Speeding and Aggressive Driving

Truck drivers may feel compelled to disregard traffic laws to meet tight delivery deadlines or to avoid smaller vehicles on the road. Speeding is a frequent cause of truck accidents, as excessive speed can lead to rollovers and brake failures, increasing the risk of collisions.

Poor road and weather conditions can worsen these risks, potentially causing trucks to lose control and crash into other vehicles.

Inadequate Training and Cargo Loading

Trucking companies must ensure their drivers receive adequate training and experience before undertaking long-haul trips. Proper training includes handling difficult road conditions and correctly loading cargo. Additionally, regular inspections of trucks and cargo are essential to identify and address potential maintenance issues.

Fatigue

Fatigue is a leading cause of truck accidents. Despite strict regulations—such as the requirement for drivers to take a 10-hour break after driving for 11 hours—some drivers may ignore these rules due to pressure to meet tight schedules. This disregard for safety regulations can significantly increase the risk of accidents.

Reach Out to Our Truck Accident Attorneys in Atlanta

Understanding the common injuries from truck accidents and their treatments is crucial for both your recovery and evaluating the worth of your personal injury claim.

At The Law Offices of Julian Lewis Sanders & Associates, your well-being is our top priority, and we are dedicated to assisting you during this challenging period.

Our skilled truck accident attorneys in Georgia are ready to listen to your story, address your needs, and work diligently to secure the compensation you deserve.

If you’ve been in a truck accident, contact us today for a free consultation. Allow us to navigate the complexities of your case and advocate for your rights.