Top 5 Most Common Causes of Tractor-Trailer Accidents

Accidents involving tractor-trailers are unfortunately common on the roads and highways of North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia. But what are the main reasons why these crashes occur? The following are a few of the most common:

• Driver fatigue. Estimates from the National Transportation Safety Board indicate that driver fatigue could be responsible for as many as 40 percent of all tractor-trailer accidents in the U.S. This is because drivers often are forced to spend many hours on the road to meet tight shipping deadlines. Although some rigs have fatigue-warning devices for drivers, not all companies have implemented this technology.
• Weight and loading issues. There are very specific regulations in the trucking industry regarding weight limits and how trucks should be loaded. Trucks that are overloaded or improperly loaded could be more susceptible to tire blowouts, brake failures, rollovers and jack-knifing.
• Speeding. Truck drivers are under a great deal of pressure to get to their destinations within a certain timeframe, which means they could be more likely to speed. However, speeding with such large vehicles can be extremely dangerous and lead to the driver losing control.
• Drug and alcohol use. The use of prescription drugs and alcohol is dangerous for anyone who is going to get behind the wheel. Some studies indicate that substance use is one of the leading causes of tractor-trailer accidents.
• Aggressive driving. Although truck drivers are sometimes guilty of aggressive maneuvering, in many cases it’s other drivers on the road weaving in and out of traffic or following trucks too closely that may cause serious crashes.

After an accident involving a tractor-trailer, work with the respected truck accident lawyers at Marcari, Russotto, Spencer & Balaban Give us a call at (888) 351-1038 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation in North Carolina, South Carolina or Virginia.