What Are Common Causes of Truck Accidents?

Knowing the causes of truck accidents is key for anyone who has been involved in such an incident. Not only can it help you make sense of what happened, but it is also a key factor in building a strong injury claim. Truck accidents can have devastating consequences, and recognizing common causes allows you to identify instances of negligence. At the Paul Rossi Law Offices, we take the time to explore every potential factor to establish liability and protect your right to fair compensation.

Driver Fatigue

One of the leading causes of truck accidents is driver fatigue. Truck drivers often face grueling schedules, with long hours on the road and tight deadlines to meet. While federal regulations limit the number of hours a driver can operate, some feel pressured to exceed these limits. Fatigue slows reaction time, impairs judgment, and increases the likelihood of accidents.

Evidence such as logbooks, electronic monitoring devices and driver testimony can help prove a driver was overworked or tired, and this evidence can make a significant difference in your injury case.

Mechanical Failures

Trucks require regular maintenance to operate safely. Brake failures, tire blowouts and engine malfunctions are common mechanical issues that can cause accidents. When maintenance schedules are ignored or repairs are conducted improperly, the risk of a crash increases exponentially.

If mechanical failure played a role in your accident, the trucking company or maintenance provider may be liable. Maintenance records and analysis are often used to demonstrate negligence in these cases.

Company Priorities Over Safety

Trucking companies sometimes prioritize profits and deadlines over the safety of their drivers and others on the road. This might lead to improper hiring practices, inadequate training or unrealistic expectations for drivers. A lack of proper oversight may also result in allowing unsafe practices to continue unchecked.

When a trucking company’s priorities contribute to an accident, lawyers can scrutinize company policies, employee records and communication logs to demonstrate disregard for safety, which can strengthen your case.

Improper Loading Practices

Trucks are designed to carry large loads, but how those loads are distributed makes a big difference in safety. Overloaded or unevenly loaded trucks are prone to tipping over, especially when making turns or traveling through adverse weather. Improperly secured cargo can also shift during transit, creating hazardous situations for the driver and other vehicles.

Accident reconstruction and inspection of cargo loading procedures can often reveal whether improper loading practices contributed to an accident, helping to hold accountable those responsible.

Holding Negligent Parties Responsible

Finding the cause of a truck accident is not just about identifying what went wrong; it’s about determining who is responsible. Whether it’s a fatigued driver, a negligent trucking company or poor vehicle maintenance, these factors can be a foundation for a personal injury claim. At the Paul Rossi Law Offices, we work to uncover every detail to ensure you get the compensation you deserve.

Contact Us Today

If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. Our compassionate and experienced team is here to guide you through every step of the process. Contact the Paul Rossi Law Offices today for a consultation and learn how we can fight for your rights. We’re ready to help you seek the justice and compensation you deserve.