Truck accidents are common on U.S. highways. Forbes reported that 523,796 accidents involving large trucks occurred in 2021. As a result of the truck accident, the victim will suffer severe injuries, financial losses, and property damage.
Most truck accidents occur due to the negligence of the truck driver. Remember, an experienced driver can also make mistakes that will cause deadly truck accidents. It is necessary to prove the negligence of the truck drivers. So, you can get fair compensation for your losses.
If you sustain any injuries, you need to get legal assistance from a truck accident attorney from The Champion Firm or other reputable law firms. Before taking legal action, you should know the seven errors committed by truck drivers. Read on.
1. Distracted Driving
Distracted driving by truck drivers is the major cause of truck accidents. It increases the risk of rear-end collisions, lane departures, and rollover accidents. It makes truck drivers lose control and reduces reaction time.
Here are some instances of distracted driving:
- Using a cellphone
- Texting
- Drinking and eating
- Grooming
- Adjusting controls or mirrors
- Looking for or reaching for something in the vehicle
- Daydreaming
Truck drivers should avoid any activities that take their hands, eyes, or minds off the road to prevent such accidents.
2. Fatigued Driving
Generally, truck drivers work long hours without breaks. That makes the driver sleepy, tired, or drowsy. This can impair the vision, coordination, concentration, and judgment of the truck driver.
The truck driver should follow the hours-of-service regulations and keep accurate records of their driving time and rest periods to avoid accidents. More importantly, they should get enough sleep before driving.
3. Aggressive Driving
Aggressive driving is when the truck driver is reckless towards other motorists. The following are considered aggressive driving behaviors:
- Weaving through traffic
- Running red lights
- Tailgating
- Cutting off
- Making rude gestures
- Threatening or yelling
Truck drivers should maintain a calm attitude towards other drivers, even if they are aggressive or rude. At the same time, they should avoid engaging in any arguments or conflicts with other drivers.
4. Driving Under the Influence
Driving under the influence occurs when a truck driver is impaired by drugs, alcohol, or medication. It decreases their alertness and decision-making skills.
A truck driver should never use illegal drugs, drink alcohol, or take any medication that can impair their driving ability. Doing so helps prevent accidents.
5. Inexperienced Driving
Inexperienced drivers are also a reason for truck accidents. Inexperience causes the driver to make more mistakes, which can cause a truck accident. This type of accident occurs due to the following factors:
- Inadequate training, mentoring, or supervision
- Difficulty in adapting to a different type of truck, route, or cargo
6. Not Adapting to Weather Conditions
The US sees different types of weather throughout the year. It is the truck driver’s responsibility to check the weather before leaving for a trip.
Some drivers, in an attempt to meet deadlines, throw caution to the wind and drive in harsh weather. They neither slow down nor stop their truck.
Driving at excessive speeds during inclement weather has increased chances of a truck accident.
7. Lack of Maintenance
If truck drivers and companies fail to perform regular inspections and maintenance or ignore the results of inspections, a truck accident can occur. The following are the common problems that arise due to poor truck maintenance:
- Brake failures
- Lack of lights or defective lights
- Fuel leaks
- Tire blowouts
- Steering component defects
That’s why truck drivers should perform regular maintenance checks and inspect the truck before and after every trip. They should also fix any issues as soon as possible to avoid accidents.
Final Thoughts
All the above are common driver errors that cause deadly collisions. If you are involved in a truck accident, then it is important to take legal action against the truck driver or truck company. Consulting an experienced lawyer can help you get compensation for your injuries.