Truck accidents can be devastating due to the sheer size and weight of commercial trucks, which makes collisions with smaller vehicles far more dangerous. Determining the cause of a truck accident is essential in figuring out who may be liable for the damages and injuries that follow. Our friends at Joseph Law Group, LLC discuss some of the most common causes of truck accidents and who might be held responsible. Identifying the right party is a key step, especially when working with a truck accident lawyer to pursue a claim.
Driver Fatigue
One of the leading causes of truck accidents is driver fatigue. Truck drivers often work long hours to meet delivery deadlines, and although there are federal regulations that limit the number of hours a driver can be on the road, these rules are sometimes disregarded. Drivers may feel pressured by their employers to cover more ground in less time, leading them to drive while tired. Fatigue impairs reaction time, judgment, and focus, making accidents more likely.
In cases of driver fatigue, the trucking company may share liability if they encouraged or even required the driver to work longer hours than permitted by law. Drivers who fail to take mandated breaks may also bear responsibility if their fatigue directly contributed to the accident.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is another common cause of truck accidents. Just like other drivers, truck drivers can be distracted by their phones, GPS devices, or even eating while driving. Given the time they spend on the road, distractions are a persistent issue, and even a few seconds of distraction can have serious consequences.
When a truck accident occurs due to distracted driving, liability often falls on the driver. However, if the trucking company’s policies encourage or allow for risky behavior, such as requiring constant communication with dispatch while driving, the company may also be partially responsible.
Improper Maintenance
Commercial trucks undergo significant wear and tear, making regular maintenance essential for safe operation. Brake failures, tire blowouts, and steering issues are often the result of improper or neglected maintenance. In these cases, an accident may be caused by a mechanical failure rather than driver error.
If improper maintenance is the cause, liability may rest with the trucking company or a third-party maintenance provider responsible for inspecting and repairing the vehicle. Trucking companies are generally required to keep records of maintenance and repairs, and failure to do so can point to negligence on their part. A lawyer can help investigate these records to determine if poor maintenance contributed to the accident.
Improper Loading Of Cargo
Loading cargo correctly is critical for a truck’s stability on the road. When cargo is not loaded or secured properly, it can shift during transit, causing the truck to become unbalanced and potentially leading to rollover accidents or loss of control. Trucks carrying cargo that exceeds weight limits are also more prone to accidents, as the extra weight affects braking time and maneuverability.
In these cases, the liability might lie with the company responsible for loading the cargo, which could be the trucking company or a separate entity that specializes in cargo loading. If the trucking company is responsible for securing the load, they may be held liable if improper loading is found to be a factor in the accident.
Speeding And Reckless Driving
Speeding is a significant factor in many truck accidents. Due to their weight, trucks require more distance to stop than smaller vehicles, making speeding especially dangerous. When truck drivers exceed speed limits or engage in reckless driving, they put themselves and others on the road at serious risk.
In accidents caused by speeding or reckless driving, liability typically falls on the driver. However, if the trucking company has policies or practices that encourage drivers to meet tight deadlines at any cost, they may also be held accountable. Tight schedules can incentivize drivers to take risks, and proving that the trucking company put undue pressure on drivers can shift some liability to them.
Driving Under The Influence
Although rare, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol can occur among truck drivers and is extremely dangerous. Trucking companies are required to conduct drug and alcohol tests on drivers, especially after accidents or incidents, to ensure the safety of their drivers and the public. When a driver causes an accident while under the influence, the driver is generally liable, but the trucking company could also face legal consequences if they failed to conduct required testing or hired a driver with a known history of substance abuse.
Inclement Weather And Road Conditions
Poor weather and road conditions can also contribute to truck accidents. However, it is generally up to the driver to exercise caution in adverse conditions, such as rain, snow, or fog. Drivers should reduce speed and follow safety protocols to prevent accidents in difficult driving environments.
If an accident is caused by poor weather but could have been avoided with safe driving practices, the driver might be held accountable for not adjusting their driving accordingly. If poor road conditions are to blame, there could also be liability on the part of the agency responsible for maintaining those roads.
Working With Legal Support
Determining liability in a truck accident requires careful examination of evidence, policies, and practices related to trucking operations. If you or someone you know has been in a truck accident, seeking legal guidance can help identify responsible parties and explore options for compensation. Consider consulting an experienced attorney to discuss your case and learn more about the steps available to you.