As you know, truck accidents always have the potential to cause severe damage. Unfortunately, their massive size and weight can prompt significant carnage in a crash.
However, knowing what tends to cause tractor-trailer accidents can help you avoid them. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), these are the 10 leading causes of tractor-trailer accidents:
#1 - Fatigue
Drivers are often encouraged to push themselves further than they should in order to meet deadlines. When drivers push themselves too far, fatigue is common.
#2 - Inadequate Surveillance
This occurs when the driver is in a circumstance where he or she must look to complete an action safely, and either fails to look in the appropriate direction or looks but does not see.
#3 - Over-the-Counter Drug Use
It’s common for truckers to take over-the-counter drugs in order to help them stay awake during long drives.
#4 - Required to Stop Before the Crash
These crashes occur when truckers must stop, such as for a traffic control device or a crosswalk.
#5 - Roadway Issues
This includes any and all hazards found on roadways.
#6 - Unfamiliarity with Roadway
Certain roads are more complicated to navigate than others. Large trucks may have a particularly difficult time navigating unfamiliar roads due to the size and weight of their rigs.
#7 - Driving Too Fast for Conditions
As you know, it’s critical to slow down when driving in inclement weather. Unfortunately, not everyone does this. When truckers fail to drive at appropriate speeds, accidents can happen.
#8 - Prescription Drug Use
About 66% of all adults in America take prescription drugs. Some truckers are bound to be part of that population.
#9 - Traffic Flow Interruption
This includes anything from traffic congestion to road work.
#10 - Brake Issues
When the brakes on a truck fail to properly engage, an accident is likely.
If you’ve been hurt in a truck accident through no fault of your own, you may be owed compensation. Let our team see if we can help you recover it.
Contact the skilled team at Fellerman & Ciarimboli Law, PC today at (877) 989-4878 or by filling out our online contact form to discuss the details of your case.