When it comes to trucks, it is no secret that these accidents have the potential to lead to serious injuries and fatalities. For this reason, everyone has to know about the most common causes of truck accidents. By knowing about these common causes, everyone can take steps to protect themselves, as well as others, on the road.
1. Driver Fatigue Is a Major Issue
Without a doubt, one of the most common causes of truck accidents is driver fatigue. The reality is that too many drivers are trying to push themselves too far. Why would drivers want to drive more miles in a shorter amount of time? The answer is that many truck drivers are paid by the mile. This means that if they are able to stay up for longer periods of time, they can log more miles and get paid more money. On the other hand, this also places themselves and others at risk. For this reason, truck drivers need to make sure they abide by all rules and regulations to prevent the development of truck accidents.
2. Alcohol and Drug Use Are Still Common
Another major cause of truck accidents is alcohol use and drug use. When drivers take drugs, they might impact their judgment, make it hard to react to changing conditions, and could even fall asleep behind the wheel. The same can happen when drivers drink alcohol. While the legal limit for most drivers is 0.08, the legal limit for truck drivers could be lower. For this reason, it is important for truck drivers to stay away from alcohol and drugs to reduce the chances that they might be involved in a serious truck accident. Even a small accident could lead to major injuries that might place someone in the hospital.
3. Poor Training or Maintenance Can Lead to Truck Accidents
Finally, those who think that driving a truck is just like driving a large car could not be more wrong. In reality, trucks are totally different from cars. This is why truck drivers need to get a special license just to operate one. This means going through special training and classes to learn about truck safety. Poor driving training could lead to truck accidents.
In addition, poor truck maintenance might also lead to truck accidents. All trucks have to be maintained just like regular cars. If truck drivers and companies do not keep their vehicles up to date on their maintenance, this could lead to a truck accident. This means tire rotations, oil changes, routine inspections, and more.
4. Truck Accidents Could Lead to Serious Injuries
Just like car accidents, truck accidents could happen at any time. This is why it is important for everyone to be prepared. All truck companies and drivers need to make sure they hold themselves accountable and keep everyone on the road safe from harm. A truck accident could lead to major injuries that land someone in the hospital. There are ways to prevent them from happening.
