Texas highways are home to some of the busiest roads in the country. With the high volume of traffic, large trucks are a common sight. While these trucks are key to our economy, they can be dangerous when accidents occur. Commercial truck accidents often lead to severe injuries, damage, or even fatalities. Understanding the common causes of truck accidents in Texas can help drivers stay safe and act if they are involved in an incident.
Several factors lead to truck accidents. Some involve the truck driver, while others stem from the behavior of other drivers on the road. The sheer size of these vehicles makes them especially hazardous. Recognizing the causes of truck accidents helps in understanding how to avoid them.
Driver Fatigue and Long Hours
One of the leading causes of truck accidents is driver fatigue. Truck drivers often work long hours and face tight deadlines. Many are encouraged to drive for extended periods to meet company schedules. Fatigue can significantly impair reaction times and judgment. Tired drivers may fail to notice road hazards, misjudge traffic, or even fall asleep at the wheel.
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), truck drivers must adhere to Hours of Service (HOS) rules. These rules limit the number of consecutive hours a driver can operate a vehicle. Unfortunately, violations of these rules still occur, and many accidents can be attributed to driver fatigue.
Distracted Driving
Another common cause of truck accidents is distracted driving. Like any driver, truck drivers can get preoccupied with their cellphones, in-cab technology, or eating while driving. A momentary lapse in attention can lead to catastrophic accidents. Truck drivers are not immune to the dangers of texting or talking on the phone. When a truck driver takes their focus off the road, it is harder for them to respond quickly to changes in traffic, weather, or road conditions.
Given the size of commercial trucks, drivers need to maintain a high level of awareness to navigate traffic safely. Even brief distractions can have devastating results. Victims of such accidents may suffer from severe injuries, and legal action may be required to recover compensation.
Poor Weather and Road Conditions
Weather conditions like rain, snow, fog, and ice can affect the ability of truck drivers to control their vehicles. Trucks are harder to handle in poor weather, especially wet or icy roads. When visibility is reduced, the risks of an accident rise. Trucks need more time and space to stop or maneuver in such conditions.
Road conditions also play a significant role. Potholes, road debris, or poorly marked curves can cause a truck to lose control. Drivers must adjust their speed and driving style to match the road conditions. Many truck accidents occur due to failing to account for adverse weather or poor road infrastructure properly.
Mechanical Failures and Poor Maintenance
Truck accidents often happen due to mechanical issues that regular maintenance could have avoided. Commercial trucks are large and heavy vehicles, requiring constant checks to ensure that parts like brakes, tires, and lights function properly. If a truck experiences brake failure or tire blowouts, it can cause a crash.
The trucking company and the driver ensure the vehicle is in good working order. Failure to adhere to scheduled maintenance, such as checking brake fluid, tires, and other important parts, can lead to a serious accident.
Speeding and Aggressive Driving
Speeding is another common cause of truck accidents. Trucks, due to their size, require more time and distance to come to a complete stop. When drivers exceed speed limits or drive too fast for conditions, they cannot react quickly enough to avoid hazards. Speeding in bad weather or in high-traffic areas increases the chances of an accident.
Aggressive driving also includes tailgating and unsafe lane changes. Large trucks need space to maneuver, but drivers of smaller vehicles often fail to give them the necessary room. When other drivers force their way in front of trucks or cut them off, it can lead to dangerous situations that result in accidents.
Inadequate Training and Driver Experience
Not all truck accidents are caused by reckless driving or mechanical issues. Sometimes, the problem lies in inadequate driver training. Commercial truck drivers must undergo specialized training to handle their large vehicles safely. Unfortunately, some drivers may not have the proper experience or skills to operate a truck in challenging conditions.
Without sufficient knowledge of handling large vehicles, a truck driver can make mistakes like improper braking, incorrect turns, or misjudging the truck’s size. Such mistakes can lead to accidents that might have been preventable with better training.
Truck Blind Spots and Lack of Visibility
Due to their size, commercial trucks have large blind spots that make it difficult for drivers to see smaller vehicles. These blind spots are often found behind the truck and along the sides. When other drivers pass too closely or linger in these blind spots, accidents can occur.
Many accidents happen when a driver in a smaller vehicle makes a maneuver in the blind spot, thinking the truck driver can see them. If a truck driver does not notice the vehicle beside them, it can lead to a collision. This is why drivers must always avoid lingering in a truck’s blind spots.
Improper Loading and Overloading
Commercial trucks are often used to transport heavy loads. However, accidents are more likely when these trucks are not properly loaded or when they are overloaded. An unbalanced or improperly secured load can cause a truck to tip over or become harder to control. Excess weight can also affect the truck’s braking ability and increase the crash risk.
The trucking company is responsible for making sure their trucks are loaded properly, but drivers must also inspect their vehicles before hitting the road.
Driver Impairment from Alcohol or Drugs
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious issue on the road. Truck drivers are held to a higher standard due to the potential consequences of impaired driving. Unfortunately, some drivers may still choose to drive while under the influence.
Alcohol and drugs impair judgment, reaction times, and coordination. For truck drivers, the results of driving under the influence can be disastrous. In addition to the criminal charges that come with DUI offenses, truck drivers may be held liable for the damages and injuries caused by their impairment.
How Tate Accident Law Can Help With Truck Accident Cases
If you have been involved in a truck accident in Texas, Tate Accident Law is here to help. Our truck accident attorney team is experienced in handling complex truck accident cases and fighting for the compensation you deserve. With over 30 years of experience and a proven track record of success, we are committed to protecting your rights.
Speak with one of our skilled personal injury attorneys today to learn more about your options. We are available 24/7 for a free case review.
