Trucking accidents are unfortunately too common owing to a number of factors.
Being a truck driver is a lucrative and rewarding career, but it can also be dangerous. Truckers have to follow a strict set of regulations and habits to ensure that they make it to their destinations safely. However, it’s true that accidents happen even when all precautions are taken. Here are the most common causes of trucking accidents.
Failure to Maintain a Safe Speed
Speeding is one of the main causes of trucking accidents. All professional truckers operate on a set schedule but it’s still important to adhere to posted speed limits for safety. Driving too fast results in having less control at the wheel. Accelerated speeds could lead to having less time to stop or make it more difficult to control the truck on winding roads.
Unfamiliar with the Road
Speaking of winding roads, another major cause of trucking accidents is being unfamiliar with the road ahead. Although trucking professionals drive for a living, it is possible to become overly confident. If a driver gets lost or approaches an unexpected sharp turn, it could result in distractions and crashes.
Poor Weather Conditions
Slick roads and poor visibility both go hand-in-hand with unfavorable weather conditions. In heavy rain, snow, or sleet drivers have even less control of the truck than in dry conditions. In addition to the slippery roads and low visibility, winter weather is also responsible for more roadway problems like potholes from salt and even flooding.
Fatigue
Trucking professionals often drive for long hours throughout the day and night. This can lead to sleepiness and fatigue. Distractions and drowsiness as a result of fatigue lead to more accidents. In fact, fatigue is one of the leading causes of trucking accidents because drivers often don’t know they’re experiencing it until its too late.
Brake Failure
Trucks are heavy, large, and often carrying thousands of pounds of cargo. With that in mind, imagine how much braking power it takes to bring them to a stop. If the brakes aren’t in top condition or completely failing, it will cause an accident.
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