Accidents involving large trucks often lead to serious injuries, significant property damage, and even fatalities due to the size and weight of these vehicles. Identifying the primary causes of truck accidents and understanding how to avoid them can make a big difference in reducing these incidents. An Indianapolis, IN truck accident lawyer sees the impact of these accidents on individuals and families every day and can share some straightforward insights on truck safety to help keep you and your loved ones safe on the road.
Driver Fatigue And Exhaustion
One of the top causes of truck accidents is driver fatigue. Many truck drivers face demanding schedules that require long hours behind the wheel, sometimes driving through the night to meet deadlines. When drivers are tired, their reaction time slows, and their ability to focus on the road diminishes. Unfortunately, this can lead to mistakes that may not be easily corrected, especially at high speeds.
To reduce the risk of accidents related to driver fatigue, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has regulations limiting the number of hours drivers can operate their trucks without breaks. However, these regulations alone aren’t always enough, as drivers may feel pressured to ignore breaks. If you’re sharing the road with trucks, stay alert to signs of driver fatigue, such as swerving or inconsistent speed, and keep a safe distance.
Speeding And Reckless Driving
Speeding and reckless driving are also common causes of truck accidents. Trucks require significantly more time to stop than cars do, and speeding reduces the time available for drivers to react to sudden changes in traffic conditions. Additionally, taking sharp turns or driving aggressively while hauling heavy cargo increases the risk of a truck tipping over.
Truck drivers must follow the speed limits set for large vehicles and exercise caution when passing other vehicles, especially on highways. For other drivers, the best approach is to avoid driving closely alongside trucks, especially in areas with frequent lane changes or merges. Being aware of a truck’s large blind spots will also help you avoid potential accidents.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is a problem across all types of vehicles, but it’s particularly dangerous for truck drivers. Distractions can come in many forms, such as texting, eating, adjusting GPS systems, or handling paperwork. Due to the size and limited maneuverability of trucks, even a momentary lapse in focus can result in catastrophic consequences.
The FMCSA has specific restrictions against texting and the use of handheld devices for truck drivers, which are intended to reduce distractions. Nevertheless, accidents continue to happen when drivers don’t follow these rules. Staying focused and avoiding all distractions while driving can help drivers remain attentive and reduce accident risks.
Call To Action
Truck accidents are preventable, and staying informed is one of the best ways to protect yourself and others. If you or someone you know has been involved in a truck accident, it’s crucial to seek advice on the steps to take for recovery and compensation. At Ward & Ward Personal Injury Lawyers, we’re here to provide guidance and support in these situations, so please don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance.
