As long as they’re safely maintained, semi trucks are safe to drive. At least, that’s what their video advertisements and media coverage tell us.
However, there is a surprising amount of semi truck accidents happening worldwide. These can be anywhere from rear-endings to complete veering off the road and smashing into things.
You might be wondering what the reasons for these accidents are. Continue reading to learn more about semi accident.
How Common Are Semi-Truck Accidents?
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, in 2020, there were over 4,900 fatal crashes involving large trucks and buses. Furthermore, there were more than 100,000 non-fatal accidents involving large trucks, causing severe injuries and property damage. These numbers highlight the severity and frequency of semi-truck accidents on our roads.
Accidents can happen anytime, so you always need to be prepared. If you ever find yourself in a truck collision, seek legal services immediately. You can check these truck accident lawyers in San Bernardino, CA, for more info.
The Leading Causes of Semi-Truck Accidents
Semi-truck accidents are a common occurrence on our roads. The leading causes of truck accidents are listed below.
Driver Fatigue
Long hours of driving and sleep deprivation can reduce alertness and reaction time. This leads to dangerous situations on the road. Many truck drivers are under immense pressure to deliver their cargo on time. This often means sacrificing necessary rest breaks.
Speeding
There are regulations and laws set in place to limit the speed at which these large commercial vehicles can travel. Despite this, some truck drivers still choose to exceed the speed limit. The immense size and weight of semi-trucks make them more difficult to control at high speeds.
Additionally, speeding reduces the reaction time of truck drivers. This makes it difficult for them to avoid sudden road hazards or obstacles.
Inadequate Training
Sadly, some drivers do not receive proper training before getting behind the wheel. This lack of training can result in serious accidents. Additionally, inadequate training can lead drivers to be unaware of important regulations and safety procedures.
Poor Maintenance
Neglecting regular maintenance and failing to address small issues promptly can result in major malfunctions on the road. This includes issues such as:
- worn tires
- faulty brakes
- malfunctioning lights
They can significantly increase the risk of accidents. In addition, inadequate maintenance of crucial components like steering and suspension systems can also lead to accidents.
Weather Conditions
Reduced visibility can make it difficult for truck drivers to see other vehicles and hazards on the road, leading to collisions. Additionally, strong winds and heavy rain can cause trucks to lose control and tip over, especially on highways and bridges. Furthermore, icy road conditions can make it challenging for semi-trucks to brake and maneuver.
Improper Loading
One of the main factors of improper loading is the failure to distribute weight evenly. This can cause the truck to tip over or become difficult to maneuver, especially on sharp turns. Another common issue is overloading. This is where the weight of the cargo exceeds the truck’s capacity, putting undue stress on the brakes and suspension.
What You Need to Know About a Semi Accident
In conclusion, understanding the truth about a semi accident and its causes is essential for promoting safety on our roads. By addressing issues such as driver fatigue, mechanical failures, and inadequate training, we can prevent these accidents from occurring.
So, let’s work together to prioritize improved regulations and education in the trucking industry and ensure the safety of all drivers and passengers.
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