5 Common Causes of Truck Accidents

Truck accidents can be devastating. The sheer weight and size of a large truck can leave a trail of destruction that often claims innocent lives.

In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, truck accidents contributed to 3,900 fatalities across the country in 2012. Over the same period, more than 100,000 people sustained serious injuries in these crashes.

Research suggests that there are several common causes of truck accidents. If you are aware of these hazards, then you stand a better chance of avoiding a major collision.

Unfortunately, even the safest drivers cannot control the actions of other motorists. If you were injured in a truck accident, contact the Cooper Law Firm. We can evaluate your case to determine if you have valid grounds for a lawsuit. If so, then you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages and health-care costs.

To schedule an appointment with a Longview truck accident lawyer, call our office today at 903-297-0037. In the meantime, read on to learn five common causes of truck accidents, according to research by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration:

1. Medication and Drugs

According to the FMCSA, illegal drugs and medication are primary contributors to truck wrecks. Researchers found that up to 26 percent of all truck drivers took either prescription or illicit drugs prior to an accident. Over-the-counter medication is also problematic, with 18 percent of truck drivers reporting taking tablets purchased at pharmacies prior to a crash.

2. Excessive Speed

Speeding is a major contributor to all types of motor-vehicle accidents. More than 23 percent of drivers involved in truck crashes were speeding. Travelling at excessive speeds increases the likelihood of causing serious injuries and property damage.

3. Blind Spots

Trucks have large blind spots, and many motorists who travel in these blind spots are unaware that the truck driver cannot see them. Experienced truck drivers will make every effort to check their blind spots before turning or changing lanes, but in spite of this, blind spots are still the reasons behind 14 percent of truck crashes.

4. Unfamiliar Territory

Truck drivers who venture out of familiar territory are at a greater risk of causing a crash. Indecision, reading maps, and resetting GPS systems without stopping create distractions that can lead to major crashes. According to the FMCSA, drivers who are not familiar with the roads cause 22 percent of truck accidents.

5. Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is a major concern for Texas law enforcement – particularly when it comes to truck drivers. Truckers who work long hours shift their focus to cell phones, car radios, food and even passengers. According to the FMCSA, 8 percent of truck accidents happen when drivers take their attention off the road.

If you were in an accident with a truck, then you probably suffered major injuries. You may even be unable to return to work.

At the Cooper Law Firm, we can evaluate your accident and determine if filing a lawsuit would be in your best interests. Call our Longview truck accident attorney today at 903-297-0037 to schedule a consultation.