Truck accidents are a significant concern on our roads. This is primarily due to their potential for severe damage and fatalities, but what are the causes of truck accidents?

The massive size and weight disparity between large commercial trucks and smaller passenger vehicles often result in catastrophic outcomes. Let’s dive into the common factors behind truck accident lawyer Chicago chicagoaccidentattorney.net. Including the importance of hiring a lawyer, and how insurance policies come into play.

Magnitude of Truck Accidents

Truck accidents are unfortunately common, and their consequences are often devastating. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), large commercial trucks, while constituting less than 5 percent of all registered vehicles nationwide, are involved in over 13 percent of all fatal crashes on U.S. roadways.

In 2021, the National Safety Council reported that large trucks were involved in 5,700 fatal crashes, marking an 18% increase from 2020 and a 49% increase in the last decade. These sobering statistics underscore the gravity of truck accidents and the urgent need for preventive measures.

They are particularly devastating in pedestrian and bicycle accidents. Collisions with motorcycles are often fatal and similar to accidents with cars. As mentioned, it’s due to their sheer size and weight compared to others on the roads.

Key Causes of Truck Accidents

Several factors contribute to the occurrence of truck accidents. Many of these can be traced back to the truck driver’s actions or inactions, while others involve external elements such as weather conditions and road quality. Here are the most common causes:

1. Driver Inexperience and Fatigue

Truck driving is a highly skilled profession requiring extensive training and experience. Inexperienced drivers may lack the necessary understanding of how to control large vehicles, especially in challenging road conditions.

Moreover, truck drivers often work long hours, leading to fatigue, which can impair their concentration and reaction times

2. Distracted Driving and Substance Abuse

Distractions, including the use of mobile devices while driving, eating, or even daydreaming, can lead to fatal accidents. Additionally, driving under the influence of alcohol, illegal drugs, or certain prescription medications can significantly impair a driver’s ability to operate a truck safely.

3. Speeding and Overloading

Speeding is a common factor in many truck accidents. The larger the vehicle, the longer it takes to stop, making speed control crucial for large trucks. Overloading trucks can also lead to accidents by making the vehicle harder to control and increasing the likelihood of tire blowouts.

4. Adverse Weather Conditions

Inclement weather, such as rain, snow, fog, or high winds, can make driving a large truck particularly challenging due to reduced visibility and road traction.

Common Types of Truck Accidents

Truck accidents can cause significant harm due to the sheer size and weight of these vehicles. Understanding the common types of truck accidents can help to prevent them.

1. Truck Rollovers

Truck rollovers are among the most catastrophic types of truck accidents. This type of accident occurs when a truck flips onto its side or roof, often due to sharp turns, sudden swerves, or overloading.

2. Rear-End Collisions

Rear-end collisions occur when a truck crashes into the vehicle in front of it. Due to the truck’s size and momentum, these accidents can be particularly devastating. They often happen because of sudden stops, distracted driving, or following too closely.

3. Head-On Collisions

Head-on collisions occur when a truck collides with another vehicle coming from the opposite direction. These accidents are often fatal and can be caused by driver fatigue, distraction, or impaired driving.

4. Jackknife Accidents

A jackknife accident happens when the truck trailer swings out to the side, forming a 90-degree angle with the cab. This accident usually results from sudden braking or slippery road conditions, leading to loss of control.

5. T-Bone Accidents

T-bone accidents, also known as side-impact crashes, occur most frequently at intersections. These accidents typically result from a truck driver running a red light or failing to yield the right of way.

6. Sideswipe Accidents

Sideswipe accidents occur when a truck and another vehicle traveling in the same direction collide. These accidents often result from a truck driver failing to check blind spots before changing lanes

7. Wide Turn Accidents

Wide-turn accidents happen when a truck makes a wide turn, often to the right, and crashes into vehicles or objects in its path. These accidents are common in urban areas with tight corners and heavy traffic.

8. Tire Blowouts

Tire blowouts can lead to loss of control and serious accidents. They occur due to poor maintenance, overloading, or striking debris on the road. A blowout can cause the truck to swerve unpredictably, endangering nearby vehicles.

9. Construction Zone Accidents

Construction zones are high-risk areas for truck accidents due to narrow lanes, shifting traffic patterns, and the presence of workers and equipment. Accidents here are often caused by speeding, distracted driving, or failing to follow construction signs.

10. Runaway Trucks

Runaway trucks are vehicles that lose braking control, often on steep inclines. These accidents are highly dangerous and can result in severe multi-vehicle collisions. Mechanical failures or improper brake maintenance are common causes of truck accidents.

What are The Most Common Truck Accident Injuries?

Due to the massive size and weight of commercial trucks, accidents involving these vehicles often result in severe injuries. Some of the most common injuries include:

• Back and neck injuries
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Internal bleeding
• Broken bones and fractures
• Facial disfigurement
• Burn injuries

Why Hire a Truck Accident Lawyer?

Hiring a truck accident lawyer is crucial due to their expertise in trucking laws and experience in dealing with insurance companies. They can help navigate the complex legal landscape, ensuring victims receive fair compensation.

A good lawyer will start with an initial consultation to understand the case details. They will then conduct a thorough investigation, gather evidence, and build a strong case. This includes obtaining driver logs, maintenance records, and witness statements.

When searching for a truck accident lawyer, look for qualities such as experience, a strong track record, and good communication skills. Asking the right questions can help in finding out if the lawyer is knowledgeable about your case.

How to Claim Insurance for Truck Accidents?

Truck insurance policies come in various forms, including:

• Liability Insurance: Covers damages to other parties in an accident.
• Cargo Insurance: Protects against damage to the goods being transported.
• Comprehensive Coverage: This covers a wide range of risks, including theft and damage to the truck itself.

Filing an insurance claim involves notifying the insurance company, providing necessary documentation, and sometimes negotiating settlements. It’s essential to understand the process and be prepared for potential challenges.

Denied claims and underinsured trucks are common issues. Insurance companies may deny claims for various reasons, and not all trucks carry adequate insurance, complicating compensation for damages.

The Role of Regulations in Truck Accidents

Commercial truck drivers are subject to specific rules and regulations set by the FMCSA. These regulations govern aspects such as driving hours, maintenance of logbooks, and procedures for cargo loading. Violation of these regulations can be used to establish negligence which often leads to wrongful death lawsuits.

Conclusion

Understanding the common causes of truck accidents is essential for prevention and safety. By recognizing the causes and characteristics of each type, drivers, trucking companies, and policymakers can implement measures to reduce the risk and severity of these incidents.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident, it is crucial to seek legal advice to understand your rights and options. Chicago Truck Accident Lawyer chicagoaccidentattorney.net has made a name for themselves helping victims get proper compensation.

Awareness and proactive safety practices are key to making our roads safer for everyone.