The Most Common Causes of 18-Wheeler Truck Accidents
Over the past two decades, there has been a 20% increase in the number of trucking accidents across the United States. While the trucking industry is a multi-billion dollar industry, it also presents certain health and safety risks, as well as death and injury for drivers of the trucks and other drivers on the road. When an accident that involves a truck occurs, it usually results in much more harm and damage than a traditional passenger vehicle accident, mainly because trucks are 20 times bigger than other vehicles on the road. If a trucking accident does occur, it is best for a victim to contact a personal injury lawyer for help. They can evaluate the case and ensure the victim receives a fair amount of compensation. We have decided to examine the common causes of 18-Wheeler truck accidents.
Common causes for 18-wheeler trucking accidents
Driver Error
Driver error is ten times more likely to cause a trucking accident than any of the other common factors. This error results from substance abuse, inattention, distracted driving, or driver fatigue. Each of these factors can result in driver error and the inability for a driver to react properly to the dangers on the roadways. If you are injured in a trucking accident that resulted from driver error, you need the help of a personal injury and auto accident attorney to prove your case.
Equipment Failure or Malfunction
Another common factor that can lead to a trucking accident is malfunctioning equipment. This can include issues with the design or manufacturing process of the parts, or mechanical issues, such as brakes, that were not properly maintained. It is required that every truck driver and trucking company perform a pre-trip inspection and provide regular inspections and maintenance to their trucks throughout the year. If the reviews are performed, there is no reason for mechanical failures to occur. However, there are many truck drivers who ignore the rules and guidelines that have been established, which results in serious truck accidents.
Improper Loading
If a truck’s load is not properly or safely configured or distributed on the trailer, then it may malfunction when in motion. One of the most common types of improper loading results in an imbalanced load, which causes the truck to top over when it would otherwise remain upright. If a truck is improperly loaded it can also be from the load not being secured properly and then falling onto the road in the lanes of traffic. This can cause serious problems and injuries.
Any time a trucking accident occurs, it has the potential to be devastating. Attorneys in Louisiana can help protect the rights of other drivers on the road and ensure they receive the compensation they deserve. To learn more, contact us today.