Marin County Truck Accident Attorneys

Common Causes of Truck Accidents

Safety on the road is a shared responsibility, particularly when it comes to large trucks. Drivers, trucking companies, and third parties all play key roles in promoting a safe environment. Truck drivers must exercise caution by adhering to speed limits, remaining alert, and complying with regulations regarding rest periods to prevent fatigue. Trucking companies have a duty to maintain their vehicles properly, conduct regular inspections, and provide adequate training for drivers. When any of these parties fail to live up to their responsibilities, catastrophic accidents become more likely.

Truck accidents tend to be especially dangerous due to the sheer size and weight of trucks compared to smaller passenger vehicles. With the ability to weigh up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded, trucks have a greater stopping distance and generate more force upon impact. 

Many truck accidents are the result of:

• Driver fatigue. Long hours behind the wheel take a toll on truck drivers and lead to exhaustion. Federal regulations limit driving hours, but tight delivery schedules and pressure from their employers sometimes push drivers to their limits. Fatigue dulls reaction times and decision-making, increasing the likelihood of an accident.
• Distracted driving. Distractions like using a cell phone, eating, or adjusting navigation systems divert a driver's attention away from the road. For truck drivers, even a brief lapse in focus can have catastrophic consequences due to the size and stopping distance of their vehicle.
• Speeding and reckless driving. Driving above the speed limit or aggressively operating a truck endangers everyone on the road. High speeds make it harder for trucks to stop suddenly, while reckless maneuvers can cause rollovers or loss of control.
• Improper loading of cargo. Overloading or failing to balance cargo properly causes trucks to become unstable. Shifting cargo during transit increases the risk of rollovers or can cause debris to spill onto roads, endangering other drivers.
• Mechanical failures or poor maintenance. Trucks require consistent maintenance to operate safely. Faulty brakes, worn tires, or engine issues can result in mechanical failures that lead to accidents. Neglecting routine inspections and repairs puts the driver and everyone around them at risk. 
• Driving under the influence. Alcohol or drug use severely impairs a truck driver’s ability to operate their vehicle safely. Even legally prescribed medications can affect concentration and reaction times, making sober and alert driving critical.
• Limited driver training or experience. Operating a truck requires specialized skills and knowledge. Drivers without sufficient training may struggle to handle challenging situations, such as navigating tight turns or reacting to emergencies on busy highways.