Truck accidents are some of the most catastrophic and complex accidents on the road. Due to the size and weight of commercial trucks, when accidents occur, the damage can be severe, leading to significant injuries or even fatalities. Understanding the common causes of truck accidents and how lawyers prove fault is essential for anyone involved in a truck accident or considering legal action. In this post, we’ll explore some of the most frequent causes of truck accidents and how truck accident lawyers work to prove liability.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents
- Driver Fatigue One of the most common causes of truck accidents is driver fatigue. Long hours behind the wheel, tight delivery schedules, and pressure from trucking companies to meet deadlines contribute to this issue. A fatigued driver may have slower reaction times, impaired judgment, and difficulty staying alert, all of which increase the risk of an accident. In extreme cases, drivers may fall asleep at the wheel, leading to disastrous results.
- Distracted Driving Truck drivers, like other motorists, are susceptible to distractions, whether it’s talking on the phone, eating, or adjusting in-cab technology. Distraction can cause drivers to lose focus on the road, miss traffic signals, or fail to notice hazards. While texting and driving are common distractions, any activity that diverts attention from the road can be dangerous.
- Improper Loading or Overloading As our friends at Rasmussen & Miner can attest, trucks that are improperly loaded or overloaded pose a significant risk on the road. If the cargo isn’t secured properly, it may shift during transit, causing the truck to become unstable. Overloaded trucks may exceed weight limits, leading to tire blowouts or difficulty stopping, especially on highways. Additionally, excessive cargo can impair a truck’s balance and handling.
How Truck Accident Lawyers Prove Fault
Proving fault in a truck accident can be challenging due to the number of potential parties involved. Here’s how a truck accident lawyer works to establish liability:
- Investigating the Accident Scene A thorough investigation is essential to proving fault. Truck accident lawyers examine the scene of the accident, gather evidence, and take witness statements. They may work with accident reconstructionists to determine how the crash occurred and identify contributing factors.
- Reviewing the Truck’s Maintenance Records Lawyers will examine the truck’s maintenance history, including service records, to determine if mechanical failure contributed to the accident. If a failure of a critical system like the brakes or tires caused the crash, the lawyer may file claims against the trucking company or the company responsible for the truck’s maintenance.
- Examining Driver Logs and Records Drivers are required to maintain logs of their hours on the road. Lawyers review these logs to check for violations of federal driving regulations, such as driving for too long without rest. If fatigue was a factor, the trucking company may be held liable for failing to adhere to regulations.
Truck accidents often involve multiple factors and parties, making it essential to work with an experienced truck accident lawyer to establish fault. Whether the cause is driver fatigue, mechanical failure, or improper loading, a skilled lawyer can gather the evidence needed to prove liability and secure compensation for victims. By carefully investigating the accident, reviewing records, and working with experts, a truck accident lawyer ensures that the responsible parties are held accountable for their actions.