Top 5 Causes of Truck Accidents in California (and Who’s Liable)

In California, truck accidents often lead to catastrophic consequences both in terms of physical injuries and legal complexities. The massive size and weight of commercial vehicles mean that even a relatively minor collision can result in serious harm. While these incidents may seem sudden, they are rarely without cause. Understanding the most common truck accident causes in California is essential not only for safety but also for establishing liability when things go wrong.

Driver Fatigue and Truck Company Negligence

Fatigue remains one of the most dangerous and widespread issues among commercial truck drivers. Despite federal regulations that limit driving hours, drivers often push beyond safe limits due to pressure from employers, long hauls, or unrealistic delivery expectations. A fatigued driver behind the wheel of an 18-wheeler poses a risk not just to themselves, but to everyone on the road. When an accident occurs under such circumstances, both the driver and the trucking company may be held responsible for violating federal safety laws and failing to protect public safety.

Distraction Behind the Wheel

Distraction is another frequent contributor to truck accidents across California’s highways. With so much technology available in the cab, navigation systems, radios, and mobile phones it only takes a second of diverted attention for a driver to veer into another lane or miss a stopped vehicle. These moments often have devastating consequences, especially considering the stopping distance required for a fully loaded truck.

Vehicle Maintenance Failures

Mechanical failures are alarmingly common and often stem from poor fleet maintenance. Brake malfunctions, tire blowouts, or faulty lighting systems can quickly turn a routine drive into a nightmare. Trucking companies are obligated to perform regular inspections and keep their vehicles in top condition. When they cut corners either out of negligence or to save costs they may be found directly liable for any resulting accidents.

Improper Cargo Loading

Improperly loaded cargo is another invisible threat. When freight is not evenly distributed or properly secured, the balance of the truck is compromised. A sharp turn or sudden stop can cause the load to shift, leading to jackknifes or rollovers. In such cases, liability might extend beyond the driver and include third-party loading crews or warehouse contractors who failed to follow safety protocols.

Speeding and Reckless Operation

Driver behavior still plays a central role in most trucking collisions. Speeding, aggressive lane changes, or tailgating are all forms of reckless driving that dramatically increase the risk of accidents. These actions are even more dangerous when performed by operators of large trucks. Employers may be held accountable if they fail to monitor driving behavior or reward on-time deliveries over public safety.

Determining Liability in a Truck Accident

Determining who is liable in a truck accident often involves untangling a web of relationships between the driver, employer, maintenance teams, and even vehicle manufacturers. California’s comparative fault system allows for multiple parties to share responsibility, depending on their degree of negligence. What may appear as a simple case of driver error could actually reveal systemic issues like poor training, lack of oversight, or defective vehicle components.

What to Do After a Truck Accident

If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, it’s crucial to act fast. Seek immediate medical care and document the scene if possible. Take photos, gather eyewitness accounts, and preserve any physical or digital evidence such as dashcam footage or black box data. Most importantly, avoid speaking to insurance adjusters without legal representation. A qualified attorney can help you protect your rights and recover compensation.

Why Legal Help Matters

Partnering with a skilled California truck accident attorney ensures your rights are protected from the outset. Your lawyer can preserve time-sensitive evidence, identify all liable parties, and help secure compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and emotional trauma. Understanding truck accident causes in California isn’t just about knowing what went wrong, it’s about holding those responsible accountable so victims can move forward.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, time is critical. Don’t wait while evidence disappears and insurance companies build their defense. Contact Tulekyan Law today for an immediate, aggressive legal response. We’ll fight to protect your rights, uncover the truth, and pursue the maximum compensation you deserve.