How Semi-Truck Drivers Cause Multiple Accidents

Semi-trucks are one of the largest and most dangerous vehicles on the road today. They are more difficult to maneuver and stop than passenger cars and can cause significant damage and injury in the event of an accident.

While numerous factors can lead to a semi-truck accident, the most common is human error. This post focuses on accidents caused by semi-truck drivers and its leading causes.

Why Are Semi-Truck Accidents Particularly Life-Threatening?

Crashes caused by semi-trucks are dangerous due to these vehicles' size, weight, and speed. Based on reports from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), "In 2019, 4,119 people were killed in crashes involving large trucks in the United States."

Below are some facts that support why crashes caused by semi-trucks are so dangerous:

• Size and Weight

Semi-trucks are larger and heavier than passenger and regular vehicles, meaning they have more momentum and force in the event of a collision. This can result in greater damage to both the semi-truck and any other vehicles involved in the accident.

• High Speeds

Semi-trucks often travel at high speeds on highways and interstates, which can increase the severity of any accidents that occur. The faster the vehicle, the greater the force of impact, which can result in more serious injuries.

• Stopping D

Semi-trucks require much more distance to come to a complete stop than passenger vehicles due to their size and weight. This means that if a semi-truck driver needs to stop suddenly, they may be unable to do so in time to avoid a collision.

• Cargo Capacity

Semi-trucks often carry heavy cargo, which can shift during transport and cause the truck to become unbalanced. This can lead to rollover accidents, which are particularly dangerous and often result in serious injuries or fatalities.

• Driver F

Lastly, we have driver fatigue. Due to long hours on the road, semi-truck drivers are more prone to driver fatigue, which can impair their ability to drive safely and react to changing traffic conditions.

What Causes Semi-truck Collisions?

Now that we know how dangerous semi-truck collisions are, here are various factors that can contribute to them:

• Bad Weather

Weather conditions such as snow, ice, rain, fog, and wind can all increase the risk of a truck collision. These conditions can reduce visibility, decrease tire traction, and make it more difficult for drivers to control their vehicles.

• Human Error

Careless or reckless driving, such as speeding, tailgating, or failing to signal, can all lead to a truck collision. Additionally, distractions such as texting, talking on the phone, or eating while driving can take a driver's attention away from the road, leading to a collision.

• Improper Vehicle Maintenance

Trucks require regular maintenance to ensure they are safe to operate on the road. Failure to properly maintain a truck can lead to mechanical problems, such as brake failure or tire blowouts, which can cause a collision.

• Improper Loading

Properly loading a truck is important for maintaining balance and stability on the road. Improperly loaded trucks can be unstable and may cause you to lose control of the  n vehicle.

• Violation of Trucking Laws and Regulations

Trucking companies and drivers must follow specific laws and regulations to guarantee the safety of everyone on the road. Violating these laws and regulations can increase the risk of a truck collision.

Conclusion

To combat distracted driving among semi-truck drivers, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has implemented several regulations. Despite these regulations, distracted driving among semi-truck drivers remains a problem. “If involved in an accident with a semi-truck, you should speak with an attorney as soon as possible. They can help you determine who is at fault and whether you are entitled to compensation for your injuries and damages.” says attorney Felix Gonzalez of  Felix Gonzalez Accident and Injury Law Firm.