According to the latest Large Truck and Bus Crash Facts report by the FMCSA, there were 107,000 injury crashes and 4,415 fatal crashes that involved large trucks in 2018. Motor vehicle crashes happen every single day, but when they involve large trucks, the damage could be devastating. The most common causes of these catastrophic truck accidents include the following.
Truck Driver Error
An error on the truck driver’s part is one of the leading causes of truck accidents, according to the FMCSA. These errors typically include:
- Inattention or distraction
- Speeding
- Careless or reckless driving
- Impairment due to illness, alcohol, fatigue
- Violating right-of-way rules
- Truck-related problems, including tire or brake issues due to poor maintenance and inspection practices
Truck Driver Fatigue
Driver fatigue is a massive issue in the U.S. trucking industry because most truckers work endless hours and usually don’t get enough restorative sleep. Most of them just take short naps even if their bodies require restorative sleep so that they can function and do their jobs properly. But the FMCSA requires certain truck drivers to comply with hours of service rules and regulations to prevent driver fatigue and ensure the alertness of truckers on the road.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving claimed more than 3,000 lives in 2019 and continues to be a huge problem on U.S. roadways. Distractions could be anything that takes the attention of a driver away from driving, including:
- Texting while driving
- Dialing a mobile phone or talking to someone on the phone
- Drinking or eating
- Personal grooming
- Reading
- Reaching for something
- Staring at something outside
Driving Under the Influence
5% of truckers that were involved in fatal truck accidents in 2017 tested positive for one or more drugs. On the other hand, almost 60% of truck drivers involved in truck crashes weren’t tested even when truckers involved in fatal crashes must be tested. Likewise, nearly half of the truckers who had drugs in their system were also positive for alcohol. But certain prescription drugs that truckers may be using could also negatively affect their alertness, impairing their judgment and coordination, resulting in serious truck accidents.
Talk to an Experienced South Carolina Truck Accident Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one has been seriously injured or killed in a truck accident, you may have a claim against the truck driver that caused the accident. Arrange a free review of your claim with our South Carolina truck accident attorney here at Bringardner Injury Law Firm by calling us at 843-380-5299 or contacting us online.
Truck Accidents FAQs
Can I seek compensation from a truck accident?
Yes, you may be able to recover compensation for a truck accident that resulted in another party’s negligence.
How much is a truck accident compensation worth?
The value of your compensation would depend on the severity and nature of your injuries, whether you missed work to recover from your injuries, and whether you’ll experience long-term side effects from your injuries.
Do I need an attorney for a truck accident?
Yes. Your attorney will help ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve for your losses.