Longview Injury Lawyer Reveals the Top 4 Causes of Commercial Truck Accidents

Texas has unique laws that apply to commercial drivers. For example, CMV drivers can receive a DWI if their blood-alcohol contact is 0.04 percent or higher, while the legal limit for regular drivers is 0.08 percent. They must also complete specialized training to receive a commercial driver’s license.

Although truckers tend to have more experience than the average driver, CMV accidents still happen. It should come as no surprise that a large semi-truck can cleave a path of destruction, and the occupants of passenger vehicles usually suffer the worst of the impact.

If you were injured by a commercial driver in Texas, contact the Cooper Law Firm. Attorney N. Eric Cooper is a truck accident attorney in Longview who can evaluate your crash and guide you through the claims process.

Call 903-297-0037 to schedule a consultation. You can also find information about truck accident claims by visiting http://USAttorneys.com/.

Read on to learn four common causes of commercial truck accidents in Texas:

1. Short Following Distances

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration explains the importance of maintaining greater following distances in large vehicles. Because trucks are big and heavy, drivers require more time to slow down, or to take evasive action. The longer the following distance, the less likely a trucker is to strike an unexpected hazard or rear-end the leading vehicle.

2. Inadequate Surveying

From the driver’s seat, it is impossible to see around the entire truck. Some CMVs have large blind spots.

Fortunately, modern trucks are equipped with cameras and specialized mirrors to provide maximum surveillance ability. According to the Federal Carrier Safety Administration, surveying the activities of surrounding vehicles is critical for avoiding accidents. This is especially important when trucks approach intersections or change lanes.

3. Insufficient Training

You need a commercial driver’s license to drive a commercial truck. Without one, operating the vehicle is illegal.

Although truckers must complete specialized training to acquire a CDL, their employers should provide additional and ongoing training to minimize the risk of accidents. These programs should focus on defensive and evasive driving techniques.

4. Distractions

Distracted driving contributes to approximately 70 percent of all truck accidents. Professional drivers spend a lot of time behind the wheel, so they can become complacent.

Drinking, eating, using a cell phone and transporting passengers are common distractions for truckers. Just a split second of inattention can lead to a collision.

Proving liability after a truck accident can be a legally complex process. The responsible party may be the employer, driver, mechanic, truck owner or another party. Recovering damages can be particularly difficult if the insurance company denies your claim, or if the at-fault party disputes liability. This is where a truck accident attorney may be able to help.

If you suffered an injury due to a negligent truck driver, contact the Cooper Law Firm. N. Eric Cooper is a Longview injury lawyer who can investigate the accident and help you pursue the maximum compensation. He is a member of the Texas Trial Lawyers Association and the Gregg County Bar Association. Call 903-297-0037 to schedule a consultation.