3 reasons why semi-truck accidents occur

Driving alongside semi-trucks on the highway can be a nerve-wracking experience for many, and for a good reason. Naturally, semi-truck accidents can be deadlier than most other types of motor vehicle accidents. This is because when these large vehicles collide with smaller cars during a crash, the smaller vehicle absorbs most of the forceful impact of the collision.

As you may know, the more forceful an impact is, the more deadly an accident can be. Even if there aren’t any fatalities during such a crash, there are bound to be catastrophic injuries and significant vehicle damage. These are three of the reasons why catastrophic truck accidents occur on U.S. roads.

Limited maneuverability

Despite advancements in technology, semi-trucks still have limitations when it comes to maneuverability. Their size and weight make it difficult for drivers to navigate tight spaces or respond quickly to sudden changes in traffic conditions. This limited maneuverability increases the risk of accidents, especially in congested areas or challenging driving conditions.

One critical aspect of limited maneuverability is the challenge of braking. Semi-trucks require significantly more distance than smaller vehicles to come to a complete stop. This extended braking distance can lead to rear-end collisions, particularly if the truck driver is unable to react swiftly to a sudden stop in traffic.

Driver fatigue

Long hours on the road, tight schedules and the pressure to meet delivery deadlines contribute to driver fatigue among semi-truck operators. Fatigue impairs a driver’s reaction time and decision-making abilities, increasing the likelihood of accidents.

Regulatory bodies have implemented Hours-of-Service (HOS) regulations to address the issue of driver fatigue. This approach limits the hours a truck driver can spend behind the wheel without a break. However, compliance with these regulations can vary, and some drivers may still push themselves to the limit, leading to increased accident risks.

Cargo issues

The cargo carried by semi-trucks can significantly affect the severity of accidents. Improperly loaded or unsecured cargo may shift during transit, affecting the truck’s balance and stability. This imbalance can result in rollovers or other types of accidents that pose a higher risk of fatalities. Strict loading and securing protocols must be followed to mitigate the risk associated with cargo.

The factors contributing to semi-truck accidents range from the inherent challenges of driving a large vehicle to external factors like improper cargo loading. Understanding these factors is crucial for smaller vehicle drivers who want to pursue compensation following a semi-truck accident and who, therefore, need to understand what caused their unique crash. The same holds true for surviving loved ones of a fatal crash who want to pursue justice on behalf of those lost as a result of these tragedies.

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