Truck accidents are one of the most dangerous incidents on the road, given their size and weight. Commercial truck accidents may lead to severe injuries, significant property damage, and even fatalities. Because of their size, they have higher likelihood to cause catastrophic outcomes compared to regular vehicle collisions. Read on as we explore the leading causes of truck accidents and what makes these cases different. 

Common Causes of Truck Accidents

Truck accidents can happen for various reasons, but some factors are more common than others. Below are some of the top causes:

Driver Fatigue

Long driving hours and pressure of having to meet delivery deadlines make fatigue a major factor in truck accidents. Federal regulations like the Hours of Service rules seek to prevent driver exhaustion, but violations still occur. Naturally, a fatigued driver has slower reaction times and impaired decision-making. 

Distracted Driving

Despite strict regulations, distractions such as cell phone use, GPS adjustments, or eating while driving continue to cause truck accidents. Distraction is especially dangerous in large vehicles, as they already have longer stopping distances and sudden maneuvers are more difficult and dangerous. 

Speeding and Reckless Driving

Speeding can significantly contribute to truck accidents, particularly in bad weather or heavy traffic. Slowing down requires more time, so excessive speed makes it nearly impossible for drivers to avoid collisions. Reckless driving, such as aggressive lane changes, only increases the danger​. 

Poor Vehicle Maintenance

Large vehicles must undergo regular maintenance. Brake failures, tire blowouts, and other mechanical issues are often the result of poor maintenance practices. When trucks are not properly maintained, not only drivers but trucking companies can both be held liable for accidents. 

Improperly Loaded or Overloaded Cargo

Overloaded or improperly balanced cargo makes a truck difficult to control and increases the risk of rollovers or jackknifing. Cargo must be secured and distributed according to federal safety regulations, but, unfortunately, these rules are sometimes overlooked in an effort to maximize profits. 

What Makes Truck Accident Cases Different?

Truck accident cases are more complex than regular car accidents. These are three main factors: 

Multiple Parties Involved

Compared to regular car accidents, truck accidents involve multiple parties other than the driver, including the trucking company, cargo loaders, or even vehicle manufacturers. With multiple parties possibly sharing liability, the process of identifying the responsible one and pursuing claims against them becomes harder. 

Federal and State Regulations

Trucking accidents involve complex laws like the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations. These rules dictate aspects like driver qualifications, vehicle maintenance, and cargo limits. Having an attorney who understands these regulations is critical. 

Higher Stakes

Given the severity of injuries and damages in truck accidents, the compensation amounts are typically higher. Insurance companies may aggressively contest claims to limit payouts, and, without strong legal representation, you might find yourself settling for less than you actually deserve.

Steps to Take After a Truck Accident

If you find yourself involved in a truck accident, you need to take the right legal steps in order to protect your rights and strengthen your claim. Always seek medical attention first, it doesn’t matter if you feel fine since some injuries take longer to show symptoms and medical bills will serve as part of your evidence, too. Then, report the accident to the police and make sure they file a formal report, as it provides an official record of the incident and initial fault assessments.  If possible, collect evidence at the scene: take photos of the vehicles, road conditions, and injuries, and gather witness contact details to support your claim. Lastly, contact a truck accident lawyer in New York with experience in handling such complex cases. Your attorney can access vital evidence like truck logs and black box data, manage negotiations with insurance companies, and secure fair compensation.

As for the compensation, it can cover a range of damages: 

Medical expenses: covers current and future medical bills, including surgeries, rehabilitation, and therapy.

Lost wages: provides compensation for income lost during recovery or due to long-term disability.

Pain and suffering: compensates victims for physical pain, emotional trauma, and decreased quality of life.

Property damage: covers repair or replacement of your vehicle and any personal property damaged in the accident​

Final Words

Truck accidents are complex, with severe consequences for victims. With a thorough understanding of the causes and legal aspects, you can protect your rights and secure fair compensation. If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident, it’s critical to seek legal representation as soon as possible. A knowledgeable personal injury lawyer can navigate the complexities of your case and fight for the compensation you deserve.