Truck accidents are becoming more common, and they can cause severe damage to property and loss of life. The weight and size of commercial trucks make them more dangerous than other vehicles on the road. Truck accidents can occur for several reasons, including driver errors, equipment failure, and weather conditions. Knowing the causes of trucking accidents and the legal implications is essential for anyone who drives on public highways.
Causes of Trucking Accidents
Driver Error:
Truck drivers are under tremendous pressure to deliver loads on time. They can drive long hours without rest, leading to fatigue or drowsiness, which impairs their judgment. Additionally, truck drivers can take prescribed or over-the-counter medication, which affects their performance. Distracted driving, such as using mobile phones, eating, or drinking, can also contribute to accidents.
Equipment Failure:
Commercial trucks are complex machines that require proper maintenance and repair. Failure to maintain tires, brakes, steering, and other essential components can lead to catastrophic accidents. Faulty equipment can result from poor manufacturing, flawed design, or incorrect maintenance.
Weather Conditions:
Driving a large truck is challenging, but weather conditions exacerbate the risks. Rain, snow, ice, and fog can reduce visibility, and strong winds can destabilize a truck's balance. Truck drivers must adjust their driving habits and speeds to match the weather conditions or pull over and wait for the weather to clear.
Liability in Trucking Accidents
Trucking companies are responsible for ensuring their trucks are safe to operate. They must conduct routine checks on their vehicles, and drivers must comply with federal regulations that set out maximum driving times, rest breaks, and other safety measures. When an accident occurs, liability depends on the cause of the accident. The following parties may be held liable for a truck accident.
Truck Driver:
If driver error caused an accident, the driver could be liable for any injuries or damage caused. Drivers must follow federal regulations on driving times, rest periods, and other safety requirements.
Trucking Company:
If the trucking company failed to maintain its vehicles or did not enforce safety regulations properly, it could be liable for an accident. The trucking company may oversee maintenance, load balance, and driver safety training.
Manufacturer:
If equipment failure was the cause of an accident, the manufacturer could be held responsible for the accident. Defective parts or faulty manufacture can cause accidents, and liability can rest with the manufacturer.
Nashville Truck Accident Attorney
Trucking accidents can have far-reaching consequences, but by understanding their causes and the legal implications involved, you can better protect yourself on the road. If you are involved in a trucking accident, seeking legal assistance from the Law Office of Stanley A. Davis can help you navigate the complex legal process. Contact us at (615) 866-3938 to get started.