Leading Causes of Truck Accidents

Understanding the Risks and Causes of Truck Accidents

With countless hours spent navigating massive vehicles across long distances, truck accidents can often seem inevitable. Trucks play a vital role in our economy, transporting goods from one location to another. As of October 2024, over 1.5 million truck drivers were employed in the United States. While many drivers coexist peacefully with trucks on the road, serious accidents involving these large vehicles remain all too common.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents

Various factors can contribute to truck accidents, including:

• Fatigue: Long hours and overnight driving can leave truck drivers drowsy, a major risk factor for accidents. Without sufficient rest breaks, drivers may unintentionally drive while fatigued.
• Driving Under the Influence: Commercial drivers face stricter regulations, with a legal Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) limit of 0.04%, half that of other drivers. Driving under the influence is both illegal and dangerous.
• Distracted Driving: Activities such as texting, eating, or even changing clothes can divert a driver’s attention from the road.
• Reckless Driving: Speeding, ignoring traffic signals, and aggressive driving significantly raise the likelihood of accidents.
• Improper Truck Loading: Poorly loaded cargo can shift, leading to debris on the road or loss of control.
• Inclement Weather: Rain, snow, and fog can impair visibility and create slick roads, making large trucks harder to handle safely.
• Inadequate Training: New or undertrained drivers may lack the experience necessary to manage heavy vehicles or navigate safely with large cargo.
• Improper Inspections: Failure to regularly inspect a truck can lead to mechanical failures, such as brake or tire malfunctions.
• Missing a Spotter: Without assistance from a spotter, truck drivers may inadvertently back into other vehicles or obstacles.

Given their massive size, with some trucks weighing 20–40 tons, a collision with a large truck can be a terrifying experience.

Steps to Take After a Truck Accident

1. Seek Medical Attention: Ensure you and your passengers are safe and call 911 for help.
2. Call the Police: Even minor accidents should be documented by law enforcement to provide an objective report.
3. Document the Scene: Collect important details, such as:
   • The truck driver’s contact information, insurance details, and commercial driver’s license (CDL) number.
   • The trucking company’s name and supervisor’s contact details.
   • The truck’s license plate number.
   • Photos and videos of the accident scene (using your phone is fine).
4. Gather Witness Information: Obtain contact details for anyone who witnessed the accident.
5. Contact a Truck Accident Attorney: Consult an experienced attorney to assist with your case.

Legal Support for Truck Accident Victims

Whether you were hit by a garbage truck or a big rig, our Los Angeles truck accident attorneys are here to help. We have extensive experience representing clients who’ve suffered injuries, including:

• Wrongful death
• Whiplash
• Back and neck injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Disfigurement and scarring
• Nerve damage
• Paralysis
• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Our attorneys are dedicated to ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. We operate on a contingency fee basis, so you won’t pay unless we win your case.

Get Help Today

If you’ve been involved in a truck accident, don’t hesitate to contact us. Call today for a free consultation and take the first step toward securing the justice and compensation you deserve.