Causes-of-truck-accidents

Reasons Truck Accidents Happen

Causes of truck accidents vary greatly. Due to the devastation and injury that can result from truck accidents, trucking is a highly regulated industry. In fact, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) heavily regulates the trucking industry nationwide. Not to mention,  it does so with the goal of reducing accidents.

Common Causes of Truck accidents

The FMCSA has conducted accident causation studies to determine why truck accidents occur. Various reasons have emerged. The following are some critical issues related to large truck accidents:

  • Vehicle brake problems
  • Driving too fast for conditions
  • Lack of familiarity with roadway
  • Roadway problems
  • Over-the-counter drug use
  • Inadequate surveillance
  • Driver fatigue
  • Work pressure from carrier
  • Illegal driving maneuver
  • Driver inattention
  • External distraction
  • Following too close
  • Jackknife
  • Vehicle cargo shift
  • Internal distraction
  • Taking illegal drugs
  • Alcohol consumption

 

Any number of factors can lead to an accident. Causes range from environmental hazards to lack of driver training and experience. Furthermore, some vehicles are not designed properly to carry heavy loads. In addition, if vehicle maintenance and inspections are lax, mechanical failure can be an issue.

Why Truck Accident Victims Generally Require Legal Representation

When the driver is at fault for causing an accident, trucking companies along with drivers may be liable for damages. For this reason, companies hire their own legal teams to handle accident cases. Such legal teams can be formidable. Unlike the accident victim, they often have considerable resources available. They are experts in gathering evidence and protect the company’s interests.

To win a trucking accident case, you have to establish fault on the part of the truck driver or transportation company. Doing so requires knowledge of traffic laws, thorough investigation and proven legal strategies. You may be up against a large company with access to vast resources. Having an experienced attorney at your side can level the playing field.

We Can Answer Questions about Your Accident and Determine Whether the Truck Driver Was at Fault

We offer a free consultation to review your accident and evaluate the prospects of pursing a case.  Furthermore, the San Antonio based Law Office of Michael R. De La Paz brings decades of experience to every case we handle. We serve clients throughout Texas from Tyler to Abilene.