Current Trucking Trends that May Increase the Risk of Accidents
Michael Babboni
Trucking Accidents
Like other countries, we are dependent on semi trucks to haul the goods we need back and forth. However, accidents are also possible and things can go wrong that ultimately can result in death or injury. Currently, there are a few trends in the trucking industry that may be the cause of increased accidents on the road.What Is a Truck Accident Claim?
After being injured in an accident involving a semi-truck, the injured party will usually attempt to recover some compensation for their injuries and other damage that occurred. A semi-truck accident claim is when the trucking company is the liable party, and their driver is responsible for the injuries that were sustained during the accident.
When filing a semi-truck accident claim, the fault must be proven which means that the person filing the claim will have to wade through the complicated process while also dealing with their injuries. In this case, hiring an experienced personal injury attorney can be beneficial. They can help walk you through the process and ensure that everything is going as it should be.
The following are a few trending and common reasons for semi-truck accidents:
Driver Distraction
No matter what vehicle someone is driving, distraction can be dangerous and can cause significant injury or death. Distracted driving leads to more dangerous behaviors behind the wheel and is one of the most common causes of semi-truck accidents and motor vehicle accidents.
Several behaviors can fall into the category of distracted driving. Some of these behaviors include the use of smartphones while driving, texting and driving, changing music stations or songs, and other apps that distract the driver.
Driver Fatigue
Another very common cause of many semi-truck accidents is driver fatigue. Semi-truck drivers are on the road for most of the day, and this can begin to take an effect on them by causing fatigue and tiredness that can lead to more mistakes while behind the wheel.
Fatigue also results in diminished decision-making skills, decreased motor skills, and decreased senses. Most trucking companies have put into place very strict rules and regulations regarding the time and distance that truck drivers can travel.
No Parking
More and more semi-truck drivers these days are also being met with parking space shortages across the country which means they have limited areas in which to take their mandatory breaks. Because of this, the truck drivers may find themselves having to pull over to the side of the road because there are no areas available to accommodate the size of their truck. Parking on the shoulder of the road can lead to accidents.
Involved in an Accident?
Have you been involved in an accident with a semi-truck and suffered injury and damages? It may be in your best interests to seek the counsel of an experienced personal injury attorney to help you go through the steps of filing your claim and receiving fair compensation.
To help avoid accidents on the highway, every driver needs to remain attentive and alert to their surroundings. Distracted driving and driving while fatigued are not just conditions that affect semi-truck drivers; it affects all drivers.