Truck collisions can have devastating consequences for the victims that sustain injuries in the crash. Crashes can be caused by many distinct reasons like driver error, vehicle malfunction, or even negligence. Furthermore, in many cases, there are multiple contributing causes. If you have been involved in a vehicle collision that was caused by another motorist, you may be eligible for compensation. To find out whether you have a valid claim and how you can pursue compensation for damages, it is very important to contact truck accident lawyers in New Jersey who can show you your legal options. There are many common causes of truck accidents that can happen anywhere and anytime on the road or highway.
Speeding
Many truck drivers are usually under pressure to meet delivery deadlines, and this may cause some to speed up to avoid delays on the road. Speeding entails driving faster than the speed limit, or driving too fast for the weather, road, or traffic conditions. This is a dangerous way to drive as speed limits are put in place for a reason. If a truck goes too fast, it’s more likely to tip over when making a sharp turn. Also, it makes it harder for the truck to stop at a certain time if it’s going too fast, causing more damage to other cars around it.
Distracted Driving
Truck drivers can easily become distracted when they are spending many hours on the road every day. Common distracted driving actions include adjusting the radio if they want to find a certain station. Using their phones, whether it’s for making phone calls or trying to get directions. Daydreaming, eating, or drinking, is a common distraction for drivers but it can be especially dangerous for truck drivers. Also being engrossed in an audiobook, program, or podcast. It’s important for truck drivers to be paying attention to the road at all times and to limit their distractions.
Intoxication
Some drivers use alcohol or drugs while driving the trucks. Some truck drivers may use stimulant drugs to remain awake or drive while drunk. Alcohol and drugs can negatively affect a driver’s capacity to safely drive on the road. If they are under the influence, it can affect their reaction time, causing them to be erratic or too slow. It’s best to stay out of the way of a semi-truck if they are not driving properly. Truck drivers need to be always aware of their surroundings to avoid accidents.
Tailgating
Large vehicles need greater distance than smaller cars to slow down and stop. They need to keep their distance to avoid any issues with the cars on the road. Therefore, if a truck driver tailgates a passenger vehicle, he or she may not be able to slow down fast enough to avoid a rear-ending collision if the passenger vehicle brakes. This can cause considerable damage depending on the speed everyone is going. Truck drivers must maintain a good distance from cars so it’s easier for other drivers to pass them.
Drowsy or fatigued driving
Truck drivers can spend almost 12 hours per day on the road, for several days at a time. Although there are federal regulations that limit the time motorists can spend behind the wheel, they still face the risk of becoming sleepy or fatigued while behind the wheel. This can negatively impact their reaction time, perception, and judgment. Driving while feeling fatigued and groggy is just as bad as being under the influence. It’s suggested that truck drivers take necessary breaks during their shifts. They can stop by rest stops or pull off to a certain place on the highway that gives semi-trucks the ability to take a break.
Maintenance problems
All vehicles need to undergo regular maintenance to extend the life of the vehicle and repair any broken parts. A truck that has not been properly maintained can lead to serious issues. These issues include blown tires, broken wheel axles, brake failure or airbrake failure, and other mechanical failures. These mechanical failures can cause trailer crashes. Tires can pop out of the truck and onto oncoming traffic, which is dangerous for cars on the road. Truck drivers need to routinely check their vehicles to make sure it’s safe for the road.
Uneven load
An unsecured or uneven load can fall off the truck and hit other vehicles. Therefore, all truck drivers should check their loads to make sure they are secured properly before departure to avoid a deadly accident. These drivers need to understand what is going on with their trucks at all times. If they aren’t checking it can lead to serious damage for other drivers. If something looks strange, they need to pull over immediately to investigate.
Illegal maneuvers
Truck drivers may do illegal maneuvers because of carelessness or to save time on their route. Illegal maneuvers include making illegal U-turns, undertaking, changing lanes without signaling, or turning from the wrong lanes. Truck drivers are held to different standards than normal-sized vehicles. They must pay extra attention to everyone driving around them to avoid running into someone when they’re turning. These drivers need to follow the rules of the road and not make any rash decisions.
Bottomline
Truck drivers can avoid being involved in vehicle collisions if they avoid drinking while driving, tailgating, and distracted driving. In addition, these motorists can safeguard their lives and other road users by avoiding illegal maneuvers, speeding, and fatigued driving and by regularly maintaining their vehicles. If they are paying attention, truck drivers can avoid serious accidents. It’s important to understand the dangers of bad truck driving, so they can focus on getting the job done without any issues.
