The Factors Most Often Involved in Semi and Tractor-Trailer Wrecks
State and federal trucking regulations generally allow for a commercial truck to carry up to 80,000 pounds while on the road. In a collision with a passenger vehicle, which will weigh about one-tenth of that, it’s not unusual for the driver and passengers of the car to suffer serious or catastrophic loss. Though there have been numerous efforts to make the nation’s highways safer, the common causes of New Mexico truck accidents remain the same.
What Are the Common Causes of New Mexico Truck Accidents?
According to industry watchdogs, there are more than 50,000 commercial truck accidents reported every year where at least one person seeks medical attention. The factors most often contributing to semi, big rig, tractor-trailer and 18-wheeler accidents include:
- Driver fatigue—Commercial truck drivers are commonly paid by the load delivered, which provides an incentive to spend a lot of time on the road. State and federal regulations limit time behind the wheel, but many drivers either ignore or intentionally flout the requirements, often creating false driving logs
- Distracted driving—It’s a national epidemic, with too many drivers spending time on handheld devices while behind the wheel. Eating, drinking or grooming while driving are also common causes of accidents.
- Violation of traffic laws—Speeding, failure to stop, illegal lane changes and other traffic violations are common factors in truck accidents
- Carelessness in loading a truck—A truck may be overloaded or may have its cargo improperly secured, leading to loss of control of the vehicle
- Substance abuse—Many drivers turn to alcohol or drugs to stay awake or deal with long hours on the road
Schedule an Appointment with an Experienced New Mexico Truck Accident Lawyer
At the Law Office of Michael R. De La Paz, we bring more than a quarter of a century of practice experience to personal injury victims in New Mexico and nationwide, including people in Albuquerque, Las Cruces, Rio Rancho, Santa Fe and Roswell who suffered any type of injury or loss in a semi, big rig, 18-wheeler or tractor-trailer crash. We understand the many ways that a truck accident can change your life and will work hard to help you get full and fair compensation for all your losses. Arrange a free consultation today to evaluate your potential case.
Handling Personal Injury Accident Cases Nationwide, Including, But Not Limited to New Mexico, Texas, Florida, Illinois and Oklahoma