Causes of Truck Accidents
Retain Representation from a Truck Accident Attorney in Harrisburg
Truck accidents may occur for any number of reasons. The US Department of Transportation's (DOT) Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) released a multi-year study which highlights some of the most common causes of trucking accidents in the US.
Truck Driver Errors
Whatever the cause of the accident is, negligent truck drivers need to be held accountable for their actions. If you or a loved one was injured in a truck accident, it's important to seek qualified legal counsel. Turn to the experienced Harrisburg truck accident attorneys at Metzger Wickersham. If we represent you, we will relentlessly fight to get you fair and just compensation.
According to the study, top contributing factors in truck crashes include driver errors such as:
- Driving too fast for conditions
- Use of prescription and over-the-counter drugs
- Driver fatigue
- Inattention to the road
- Alcohol or illegal drug use
- Unfamiliar with roadway
- External distraction
- False assumption of other road user's actions
- Breaking traffic safety laws by making illegal maneuvers
Vehicle factors (such as improper maintenance, failed brakes or tires, lighting deficiencies and improperly loaded trailer) also play a role in causing two-vehicle truck crashes. Other contributing factors include environmental and weather issues like slick roadways and poor visibility due to rain, snow or fog.