As behemoths of the highways, trucks play a crucial role in keeping the wheels of commerce turning. However, the unfortunate reality is that truck accidents happen, resulting in devastating consequences.
In 2022, there were more than 166,000 truck accidents across the United States, resulting in at least 75,000 injured individuals. This calls for immediate action to control such issues and implement preventive measures. There are several reasons for these accidents, but if you’re stuck in one and don’t know what to do, consulting a truck accident lawyer from Rosenberg & Gluck, L.L.P., or other reputable firms must be your first resort. Let’s explore the five common reasons for truck accidents first!
5 Simple Reasons Why Truck Accidents Happen
1. Driver Fatigue
One of the leading causes of truck accidents is driver fatigue. Truckers often face demanding schedules, pushing them to the brink of exhaustion. In 2021 alone, large truck crashes claimed the lives of 4,714 individuals, a staggering 17% increase compared to the previous year. Of these fatalities, 68% were occupants of other vehicles, underscoring the severe consequences when a fatigued driver loses control. Out of these, how many accidents were caused by driver fatigue is hard to determine. Understanding how we can help drivers deal with driver fatigue becomes crucial.
2. Inadequate Training and Oversight
Lack of training contributes significantly to truck accidents. The complexities of handling large vehicles demand specialized skills. Fortunately, proper training and management can prevent catastrophic outcomes.
Employers should organize training programs and ensure drivers are well-trained before driving. Often, such accidents are caused by ignorance or minor issues that go unnoticed.
Proper training teaches drivers how to carefully prevent such accidents and deal with unfortunate circumstances. Often, drivers do not know the best measures to deal with issues promptly. Through proper training, drivers can take appropriate and prompt action.
3. Mechanical Failures
Truck accidents often stem from mechanical failures. Regular maintenance is paramount in a world where trucks are the lifeblood of logistics. Neglecting this aspect can result in brake failures, tire blowouts, and other mechanical issues, leading to accidents on the road. It is observed that brake-related problems are significantly common.
In 2021, over half a million accidents involved trucks. The number of accidents in the year before was slightly less, approximately 415,444 accidents.
4. Distracted Driving
In an era dominated by technology, distracted driving significantly contributes to truck accidents. The allure of smartphones and other gadgets poses a threat on the road. Addressing distracted driving requires a collective commitment to safety and stringent regulations. We do not have set standards to judge which accidents result from distracted driving because these are hard to monitor. Drivers should take responsibility for driving safely.
5. Overloaded and Improperly Loaded Trucks
Overloading or improperly loading trucks can compromise stability and maneuverability, leading to accidents. A truck’s sheer size and weight amplify the consequences when things go awry. It is crucial to ensure that trucks are correctly loaded and remain within their weight limits, which is essential for preventing accidents on the road. Unfortunately, this is not commonly checked. All drivers must be taught to check on such factors and remain aware of weight limits.
Conclusion
Truck accidents are a harrowing reality, claiming thousands of lives each year. By understanding the root causes, such as driver fatigue, inadequate training, mechanical failures, distracted driving, and improper loading, we can work collectively to mitigate these risks.
The staggering statistics serve as a wake-up call, urging policymakers, industry stakeholders, and drivers alike to prioritize safety. Only through a comprehensive and collaborative effort can we navigate toward safer roads, reducing the toll of truck accidents on our highways.
