What Are the Top Causes of Truck Accidents and How Can You Avoid Them?
A single moment of negligence on the road can lead to a catastrophic truck accident, leaving behind severe injuries, property damage, and even death. With their sheer size and weight, commercial trucks pose a significant risk to other motorists, especially when safety regulations are ignored.
In San Francisco, where tight streets and heavy traffic create unique challenges, truck accidents are not uncommon. The California Vehicle Code enforces strict trucking laws, including limits on weight, hours of service, and vehicle maintenance requirements. However, violations and reckless driving continue to contribute to devastating crashes.
If you or a loved one has been affected by such an accident, seeking legal guidance from a truck accident lawyer in San Francisco is essential. They can help you navigate the complexities of truck accident claims.
But what are the leading causes of truck accidents, and more importantly, how can you avoid them?
In this guide, we discuss the top causes of truck accidents and provide tips on staying safe on the road.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents and How to Avoid Them
1. Driver Fatigue
One of the leading causes of truck accidents is driver fatigue. Despite federal regulations limiting truckers to 11 hours of driving within a 14-hour work period, some drivers push beyond these limits to meet tight deadlines. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) reports that fatigue is a factor in approximately 13% of all large truck crashes.
How to Avoid It:
Adhering to Hours of Service (HOS) regulations is crucial for truck drivers. Motorists should remain alert around trucks, avoid lingering in blind spots, and keep a safe distance, as drowsy truck drivers may react slower to sudden traffic changes.
2. Speeding and Reckless Driving
Due to their massive size, trucks require longer stopping distances. Speeding or aggressive driving reduces a trucker's ability to stop in time, increasing the risk of collisions. In California, commercial trucks are limited to a maximum speed of 55 mph, yet many exceed this limit on highways.
How to Avoid It:
Drivers should avoid sudden lane changes in front of trucks and always assume a truck needs extra time to stop. If you notice a truck tailgating or speeding, allow them to pass rather than engage with them.
3. Distracted Driving
Truck drivers, like all motorists, can become distracted by mobile devices, navigation systems, or eating while driving. Even a few seconds of inattention can result in a devastating crash. Studies show that truck drivers dialing a phone are six times more likely to be involved in a crash or near-crash event.
How to Avoid It:
Truckers should use hands-free devices and take breaks to handle non-driving tasks. Other motorists should stay vigilant and avoid engaging in distractions that might put them in a truck’s path unexpectedly.
4. Poor Vehicle Maintenance
Brake failures, tire blowouts, and other mechanical failures can cause sudden and uncontrollable accidents. California law mandates regular truck inspections, yet some companies neglect maintenance to cut costs.
How to Avoid It:
Trucking companies should follow strict maintenance schedules and inspect vehicles before trips. If you see a truck with visible mechanical issues—such as worn tires or leaking fluids—keep your distance.
5. Unbalanced or Overloaded Cargo
Improperly loaded cargo can shift, causing a truck to tip over or making it difficult to control. California law limits truck weight to 80,000 pounds, but overloaded trucks still make it onto the roads.
How to Avoid It:
Regulators and companies must enforce weight limits, and drivers should double-check loads before departing. If you see a truck swaying or struggling on inclines, stay clear.
Conclusion
Truck accidents can be catastrophic, but many are preventable with proper safety measures. Whether you're a truck driver or a passenger vehicle driver, staying informed about common risks can help you make better decisions on the road. By practicing defensive driving and respecting trucking regulations, you can significantly reduce the chances of a serious accident.