What Is the Most Common Cause of a Truck Accident?

Anyone who spends a significant amount of time on the road will eventually encounter a truck accident. Crashes involving large trucks are often horrific, resulting in serious injuries to all parties involved. While there are many causes of truck accidents, truck driver error is the most frequently cited cause.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) found that 88% of truck accidents were caused by driver error. Keep reading to learn about how human error can cause collisions and other common causes of truck accidents.

Truck Driver Error

Despite best efforts to incentivize safe driving behavior, human error will always cause collisions. Many things can go wrong when operating large trucks at high speeds. Even the most diligent truck driver can make a mistake that has serious consequences. The following causes of truck accidents all fall under the umbrella of human error:

• Distracted Driving: Truck drivers can become distracted by mobile devices, in-cab entertainment, or even eating and drinking, leading to dangerous collisions.
• Speeding: Exceeding posted speed limits or driving too fast for conditions reduces a truck’s stopping ability and increases crash severity.
• Intoxicated Driving: Truck drivers with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .04% or greater are legally intoxicated and face severe penalties. Impaired driving significantly raises the risk of fatal accidents.
• Driver Inexperience: A shortage of qualified drivers has led to undertrained individuals operating large trucks, increasing the risk of crashes due to poor handling skills.
• Fatigued Driving: Despite regulations limiting hours of service, truck drivers often work long shifts that lead to exhaustion, delayed reaction times, and poor decision-making.

Vehicle Issues

Mechanical failures contribute to many truck crashes, with common problems including:

• Brake Failures: Malfunctioning brakes can prevent a truck from stopping in time to avoid a collision.
• Tire Blowouts: Worn or defective tires can cause a truck to lose control, putting nearby vehicles at risk.
• Poor Vehicle Maintenance: Trucking companies and drivers are responsible for routine maintenance. Neglecting necessary repairs can lead to catastrophic failures on the road.

Hazardous Conditions

External factors can also play a role in truck accidents, including:

• Inclement Weather: Rain, snow, and ice create dangerous driving conditions, but truck drivers are often pressured to continue operating despite the risks.
• Road Hazards: Unexpected debris, potholes, or construction zones can be particularly hazardous for large trucks, which have limited maneuverability.
• Improper Cargo Loading: When cargo is not evenly distributed or properly secured, it can shift during transit, making the truck unstable and more prone to tipping over.

Where Do Most Truck Accidents Occur?

FMCSA data indicates that the majority of truck accidents happen in rural areas, where road hazards and limited infrastructure may contribute to increased crash risks. Interstates also see a high number of truck collisions due to heavy traffic and high-speed travel. States with the highest rates of truck crashes include California, Florida, Georgia, and Texas.

Establishing Liability in Truck Accident Cases

Determining fault in a truck accident can be complex, as multiple parties may share responsibility. Potentially liable parties include the truck driver, trucking company, vehicle manufacturer, cargo loaders, and maintenance providers. Legal representation is essential to navigate these claims and ensure fair compensation.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident, seeking legal assistance is crucial. An experienced personal injury attorney can investigate the crash, gather evidence, and hold the responsible parties accountable.

Contact an Attorney

Were you injured because of one of these common collision causes? Whether you see the cause of the accident here or your situation is wholly unique, our team of experienced truck accident attorneys can help.

Don’t let another individual’s mistake leave you buried beneath medical bills. Instead, call Wendt Law Firm P.C. at 816-531-4415 and request a free case review today.

Visit Our Truck Accident Law Office in Kansas City

Truck Accident Resources

• Why are semi-truck accidents so dangerous?
• Who is liable in a semi-truck accident?
• Are Truck Accidents More Complex Than Car Accident Cases?
• Can I Sue Both the Driver and the Truck Company After an Accident in Missouri or Kansas?
• Can Passenger Vehicles Be Responsible For a Truck Crash?
• How Can Truck Accidents Be Prevented?
• What Kinds of Commercial Truck is the Most Dangerous?
• What Damages Can I Sue for in a Truck Accident?
• What Questions Should I Ask My Truck Accident Lawyer?
• How is a Truck Accident Case Investigated?
• Who Investigates Truck Accident Cases?
• What Should I Do Immediately After a Truck Accident?
• How is Fault Determined in Truck Accident Cases?
• Are Truck Accidents More Complex Than Car Accident Cases?
• Can I Sue Both the Driver and the Truck Company After an Accident in Missouri or Kansas?
• Can Passenger Vehicles Be Responsible For a Truck Crash?