Truck Accident Causes and Safety
Frequent Causes of a Truck Accident
A truck accident can happen in an instant due to a variety of causes, such as truck driver fatigue. But rest assured Federal laws limit the period of time an industrial truck driver can log driving per week. There’s at most 11-hour driving restriction allowed for truckers carrying cargo after a consecutive 10 hours off the obligation. This helps prevent driver fatigue and provides drivers an opportunity to get enough rest and sleep between shifts.
Poor or Improper Truck Upkeep
Trucking companies are responsible for proper upkeep and maintenance of their trucks to help prevent a truck accident. All upkeep checks should be documented, and a trucking company will be held liable for a trucking accident if any defective gear is discovered. Some examples of the types of malfunctioning parts, could be anything from defective brakes to tire blowouts.
Distracted Driving
Truck drivers spend long hours on the road, usually in distant areas. There can be some long days and nights, and drivers may multi-task (i.e., calling their loved ones, texting, eating, etc.). Even when there may be fewer visitors on the highway, truck drivers must focus their full attention on driving, as any distraction can be hazardous. One of the crucial widespread causes of distracted driving is texting while driving. Another common cause is pulling up GPS to get directions.
Dashing Truck Drivers
Those that exceed the speed limit put other vehicles at risk. It is a much larger concern with truckers, particularly because their truck can weigh up to 20 instances greater than the common passenger automobile.
Unsafe Driving Practices
Truck drivers log hundreds of miles each week. Lengthy stretches of time on the road can be monotonous. It often triggers some drivers to lose sight of safety measures. Along with rushing, unsafe driving practices can be the following.
- Following one other automobile too carefully
- Highway rage
- Failure to be aware of blind spots
- Frequent lane changes
- Failure to make use of flip alerts
Insufficient Training
If a driver has not had the right training related to how to drive an industrial truck, defensive driving, and different security parts, then this can pose a potential hazard. It is important that truck drivers get the proper and ongoing training to facilitate safe driving habits.
Overloading
The quantity of cargo can have a big impact. There are laws that decide how much weight an industrial truck can carry. If overloaded, it may be detrimental to the trucker’s driving. Tires can blow out, or the truck might jackknife as a consequence of an excessive amount of weight. Improperly securing cargo can also be harmful. Hence, it may result in damage and potentially deadly accidents.
Climate and Highway Circumstances
Not all highways or roads have quality road conditions, particularly for big trucks. Unpaved or pothole-ridden roads could make it difficult for drivers. Slender lanes or highways without shoulders, can also be hazardous. Not to mention, poor climate conditions. Rain, sleet, or snow, can additionally put all drivers in danger.
Rent a Trucking Legal Professional With Expertise
In case you’ve have been involved in a truck accident, you have the right to speak with a lawyer. Find a lawyer or law firm, who has expertise with this particular kind of injury or accident.
Safety Measures
There are specific steps you can take to ensure your safety and that of others.
Educate Drivers For Security Driving
As a trucking company, you might want to guarantee the security of your truck drivers. The security of the load and do every part that’s in your energy to forestall truck accidents. It’s worthwhile to bear in mind that each truck driver didn’t have the identical high quality of driving schooling or the identical expertise earlier than begin working for you.
Keep Away From Driving in a Truck’s Blind Spots
Trucks have bigger blind spots than passenger autos. These “no zones” are are immediately behind and directly next to the truck. Spend as little time as possible in these areas. At all times try to ensure you can see the truck’s mirrors. Also, make sure that there is sufficient clearance when getting in next to a truck.
Keep a Safe Driving Distance
Be sure to maintain a safe driving distance behind vehicles. Trucks require much longer stopping distances than passenger autos, so the recommendation is to keep at minimum 3-4 car lengths distance.
Observe the Rules of the Road
When drivers drive predictably, it’s simpler to keep away from accidents. Remember to observe all guidelines of the road. At all times passing on the left, and sustaining a safe speed within the limits.
Don’t Cross Turck That Are Turning
Trucks make large turns. Making an attempt to cross a turning truck places you and the other truck driver at risk. Be patient and remember you are likely the smaller vehicle, so do your best to avoid a collision.
