An accident involving a small vehicle and a truck is more likely to result in serious injuries or death. Due to the size and weight of the truck, the occupants of the small vehicle can be in more danger. So, what can cause this type of accident?
Below are two common causes of truck accidents:
Driver-related factors
A truck driver who acts negligently on the road endangers other road users. For example, a driver who speeds, runs the red light, fails to obey road signs, tailgates, unsafely changes lanes or drives while distracted, drunk or fatigued.
For example, if a driver speeds, they may have reduced reaction time. They might not have the time to come to a complete stop if a car ahead slows down or stops.
Company-related factors
Some trucking companies make mistakes that contribute to accidents. For example, when a company allows an inadequately trained driver to operate its trucks. Some companies fail to adequately train drivers due to financial constraints and pressure to meet deadlines.
A company with unrealistic expectations or schedules for drivers may also be liable if its driver causes an accident. Companies that prioritize maximizing profits to the extent of requiring drivers to work long hours to meet demand, especially with the ongoing problem of driver shortage in the industry, could be considered negligent.
It’s also not uncommon for trucking companies to use compensation methods that encourage drivers to speed or drive while exhausted. These include pay per mile and percentage of load pay. Thus, a truck driver around you might violate traffic rules or drowsy driving to make more money.
A trucking company failing to maintain its vehicles might also be held liable if a maintenance-related element causes an accident.
Being involved in a truck accident can substantially affect your life. You need to obtain more information to be fairly compensated for the losses you suffer.
