In recent years, data shows that trucking fatalities are substantial. Nashville sees a large number of commercial truck accidents every year. Most injury and fatality victims are in passenger cars involved in these accidents. Here are the top 7 causes of truck accidents:
Driver Fatigue
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has established rules for how long truck drivers can work without taking a break. However, many drivers ignore those rules to make deadlines. Studies have shown that truckers average less than five hours of sleep per night, and almost one-third (28 percent) of commercial truck drivers have mild to severe sleep apnea.
Speeding
Speeding in a vehicle is dangerous in itself. However, trucks that are breaking the speed limit are more likely to cause an accident or injury. This is because a truck’s considerable weight makes it harder to stop or control. Truck drivers can face fines or other consequences for arriving late, so they often speed to make up for the lost time.
Unbalanced or Excessive Loads
A truck that is improperly loaded or overloaded can often be the cause an accident. An overloaded truck can add extra pressure on the rear axle and can cause it to swerve and eventually get out of control. If a truck’s load is improperly balanced, it can result in blown tires, difficulty stopping, or even rolling over.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is another common reason for trucking accidents. There are many things that can distract a driver. Some of the more common distractions during driving can include using mobile devices, eating, talking through a hands-free device, and even daydreaming. These actions may seem harmless but could result in a deadly accident.
Impaired Driving
Impaired driving is a common cause of many vehicles accidents, including truck accidents. Truckers may drive under the influence of alcohol, illegal drugs, or other medications. Although trucking companies are required to conduct random drug tests on their employees, some companies may not keep up with those requirements.
Improper Training or Supervision of Drivers
Truckers are required to go through intense and ongoing training for driving their trucks. They also supposed to continue to follow education requirements even after obtaining their CDLs. If a company allows a trucker to operate one of its vehicles without proper training or supervision, they are responsible for injury accidents that result.
Improper Maintenance Routines
Lastly, improper maintenance routines can cause accidents on the road. Trucking companies have the responsibility of keeping their fleets adequately maintained. However, sometimes scheduling pressures cause these companies to bend the rules. Unfortunately, bending the rules opens the door for malfunctions like tire blowouts, brake failures, or other issues.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a great tip that we recommend is to observe the front wheels of any vehicle that you are driving near or attempting to pass in order to watch out for sudden lane shifts that could cause you to be in an accident.
As we head out on the busy roads this holiday season, always keep the safety of you and your passengers the top priority. Remember to have both hands on the steering wheel and remain distraction-free at all times. We hope you enjoyed learning about these common causes of truck accidents.
We wish you a safe holiday season and a Happy New Year.
Because we care…
Middle Tennessee Accident Attorneys
