When you take a look at the number of truck accidents happening in a year, it is easily a frightening statistic. Imagine the number of lives lost because of the various truck accidents happening worldwide. In addition to this, let us not forget the fact that there are times when these accidents do lead to serious injuries and invariably a lower quality of life for the victim.
Truck drivers are at risk when they drive on the road. Most common truck accidents occur due to the attitude, negligence and understanding of the truck driver. This is the top cause of truck accidents, even the tractor trailer types. The condition of the road only comes as the second cause of truck accidents. With that in mind, it is recommended that we take a look at these common causes:
- Fatigue
Truck driving is not an easy job. When the driver gets tired, he might get sleepy when driving and focus can surely be compromised.
- Negligence
Negligence of the driver may encompass certain types. These include failure to maintain the truck, lack of attention in the road, overloading of the truck, and over-speeding, insecure loading of the materials. When a driver is negligent, he is more likely to get into an accident. In addition to that, he will also cause harm to other drivers in the road.
- Driver Under Influence
There are truck drivers who drive under the influence alcohol and illegal drugs. When you are intoxicated with alcohol or you have taken illegal substances, you can’t possibly drive safely. It is recorded that many truck drivers do this before they go on the road and is thought to be one of the most common causes of accidents.
- Lack of Training
Truck driving is a high demand job in the United States. However, not everyone is cut out for the job. This is why a lot of applicants later find they are not suitable for the job and that is why this type of job has high turnover rate. Because of these, companies try very hard to find drivers for their vehicles. Since they have no choice whatsoever, they tend to hire untrained or poorly trained drivers who become a nuisance in the road.
With all the factors given above, how can you be sure that all truck drivers you will encounter along the road is well trained, knowledgeable and sober? The truth is, you cannot be able to do so. What you can do is to protect yourself from possible accidents.
If ever you have been involved in a truck accident and you think that the other party is the one responsible for the accident, it is recommended that you seek the help of a professional lawyer. With his assistance, you would be able to maneuver your way through the entire legal process and you will be able to prove who is at fault for the accident. With this, you will be able to get the compensation that you need.
