About 5,000 people die every year in 18 wheeler accidents. About 700 of these deaths are the occupants of the semi. Around 64% of these crashes involve a truck pulling a trailer and around 4% of these crashes involve multi-trailer trucks. A distracted truck driver is an increasing concern because distracted driving is causing more and more crashes.
There are several causes of truck crashes. Because of the weight and size of 18 wheelers, they cause lots of harm in a crash. Even a small collision with a semi can result in serious injuries to the passengers of the car that’s hit.
A Distracted Truck Driver Can Cause Accidents
Distracted driving is a top danger behind the wheel. About eight out of 10 crashes involve some driver distraction either right before or during the accident.
Distracted truck drivers pose an added risk on the road. Distracted drivers are any driver that has taken their eyes off the road or hands off of the wheel. Distractions such as the radio, GPS, or phone, can pose a serious threat to the safety of those on the road. Common distractions include:
- Looking at maps
- Texting or posting on Facebook or Twitter
- Watching TV or videos
- Answer phone calls or dialing the phone
- Eating or drinking
- Talking to passengers
- Reaching down for a dropped item
Truck drivers are particularly susceptible to distracted driving given the long hours that they work and the tedious nature of driving. Truck drivers may distract themselves in an attempt to entertain themselves. Since driving can be a rather boring task, truck drivers must stay vigilant and focuses. Not distracted.
Common Causes of Trucking Accidents
Distracted driving isn’t the only cause of truck accidents. Other, common preventable causes of trucking accidents can include:
- Speeding – Drivers may speed to get to their destination so they can drop off one load and move on to the next.
- Tired drivers – The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has warned about the grave danger that tired drivers pose. Truck drivers often drive thousands of miles every day. Since many are paid based on the amount they travel or how quickly the deliver a load, they have the incentive to keep driving. Even though regulations limit the amount of time they can drive, many drivers stay on the road. And many trucking companies let them.
- Poor truck or trailer maintenance – Truck companies can help prevent accidents by properly maintaining vehicles and trailers.
- Poorly trained drivers – Trucking companies may send inexperienced drivers out on the road to keep the money flowing. Instead of training drivers before they get behind the wheel, some companies will let them learn on the fly.
- Improper loading – Unsecured loads can shift or come loose causing accidents. Trailers must be loaded to properly distribute weight.
Contact a Houston Truck Accident Attorney Handling Distracted Truck Driver Cases
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident with a distracted driver, an attorney can help you get what you are owed. Contact Chelsie King Garza today to discuss your rights after an 18 wheeler accident.
