A Closer Look at Tractor Trailer Accidents

There is a large amount of focus on tractor trailer accidents when it comes to road safety. This is due, in part, to the severity of injuries that are suffered in this type of collision. Safety studies have approached the problem from several directions.

The objective of these studies is to identify risks and suggest effective safeguards. Legislators, industry regulators, relevant organizations and companies that rely on tractor trailers must then implement recommendations.

When it comes to tractor trailers, preventing the causes of accidents is in the interest of public safety. Due to the size and weight of these vehicles, it is more likely that multiple individuals will suffer injuries in a collision. Likewise, there is a greater risk of fatalities occurring when a truck and smaller vehicle collide.

Common Causes of Tractor Trailer Accidents

There are common factors that have been identified in tractor trailer accidents. Driver fatigue results in lapses of concentration or judgement. A driver may even fall asleep behind the wheel, which can result in a catastrophic collision.

Truck drivers under the influence of drugs or alcohol may become involved in a collision. Unfortunately, it is less likely that innocent parties will walk away without injuries in this scenario. DOT-compliant drug and alcohol testing is one way that industries and government work together identify drivers who may have substance abuse problems.

A poorly loaded tractor trailer is a ticking time bomb. With heavy goods straining against weak restraints, there is an increased risk of loads shifting or falling, leading to an accident. This type of issue also leads to legal complications in respect to liability, as multiple individuals and entities may share responsibility.

Dangerous or negligent driving covers a broad range of behaviors that can lead to accidents. In recent decades, distracted driving is a significant area of focus for road safety experts and authorities.

Listening to loud music, replying to messages, answering or making phone calls (manually) and interacting with other technologies is currently the leading cause of accidents. Tractor trailer drivers are held to a higher standard and have a duty of care. Eliminating distractions is therefore a key focus of many safety initiatives.

If you have suffered injuries in a tractor trailer accident or lost a loved one, reach out to Conley Griggs Partin LLP today for a free initial consultation.