As our Raleigh, NC truck accident lawyer can attest, truck accidents are among the most devastating collisions on the road. Because of their massive size and weight, commercial trucks can cause catastrophic injuries, extensive property damage, and even fatalities in the event of a crash. For victims and their families, one of the most important questions after such an accident is: What caused it, and who is legally responsible?
Understanding the leading causes of truck accidents and how liability is determined can help injured parties protect their rights and pursue fair compensation.
Common Causes Of Truck Accidents
While no two truck accidents are the same, many share common causes. These include:
1. Driver Fatigue
Truck drivers often face long hours behind the wheel, strict delivery deadlines, and demanding schedules. Fatigue reduces reaction times, impairs judgment, and increases the likelihood of falling asleep while driving. Despite federal regulations limiting driving hours, drowsy driving remains a leading cause of truck crashes.
2. Distracted Driving
Like other motorists, truck drivers can become distracted by cell phones, navigation systems, or even eating while driving. Given the size of a commercial truck, a momentary lapse in attention can have deadly consequences.
3. Speeding And Reckless Driving
Some drivers speed to meet tight deadlines or engage in aggressive driving behaviors such as tailgating or unsafe lane changes. High speeds make it harder to stop a truck in time to avoid a collision.
4. Poor Vehicle Maintenance
Commercial trucks require regular inspections and maintenance. Faulty brakes, worn tires, or mechanical failures can cause accidents. If a trucking company neglects maintenance, it may be held responsible for resulting crashes.
5. Improper Loading Of Cargo
Overloaded or unbalanced cargo can make trucks difficult to control and increase the risk of rollovers. Loading companies or drivers who fail to properly secure cargo can contribute to accidents.
6. Hazardous Weather And Road Conditions
Rain, snow, ice, or poorly maintained roads make driving large trucks even more dangerous. While weather is a factor, drivers and trucking companies are still responsible for exercising caution under adverse conditions.
How Liability Is Determined
Determining liability in a truck accident is often more complex than in a typical car crash. Multiple parties may share responsibility, depending on the circumstances.
- Truck Driver: If the driver was fatigued, distracted, impaired, or otherwise negligent, they may be held liable.
- Trucking Company: Companies can be responsible if they encouraged unsafe practices, failed to maintain their vehicles, or hired unqualified drivers.
- Cargo Loaders: If improperly loaded or secured cargo caused the accident, the loading company may be at fault.
- Manufacturers: When defective truck parts or equipment contribute to a crash, manufacturers or distributors may face product liability claims.
- Government Entities: Poorly designed or maintained roads may lead to claims against state or local governments, though these cases involve special rules and deadlines.
Protecting Your Rights After A Truck Accident
After a truck accident, determining fault requires careful investigation. Evidence such as driver logs, black box data, maintenance records, and witness statements often plays a critical role in proving liability. Because multiple parties and insurance companies may be involved, truck accident cases can quickly become complex.
Working with our experienced truck accident lawyer can help you navigate the legal process, identify all liable parties, and pursue the compensation you deserve for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Truck accidents can have life-changing consequences. By understanding the most common causes and how liability is determined, victims can take steps to protect themselves and hold the responsible parties accountable. At Burton Law Firm, we are here to help you.