Every automobile accident has the potential to be catastrophic, but when it comes to big rig accidents, the likelihood of incurring major injuries – let alone fatalities – is far higher. This is owing to the fact that semi trucks are both large and heavy. Driving a car, you may feel as though you have no influence over whether or not you will be involved in a truck collision. This is not always true.
The reality is that by keeping an eye out for these four typical causes of large rig accidents, you can make your driving experience a lot safer. However, if you are involved in a truck accident, do not hesitate to contact The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker at 800-333-0000 for assistance.
The Severity of Accidents involving Large Trucks
You may be astonished to discover that there are over 3300 deadly large truck crashes on American highways each year on average in the United States. You may have been shocked to discover that there are an additional 74,000 incidents that result in injury every year. According to the most recent information from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, this is the case.
They also discovered that three out of every four deaths occurred in automobiles that collided with semi-trucks. Only 15 percent of deaths occurred in large trucks, and 10 percent of fatalities occurred in vehicles that were not occupied by humans in either vehicle. Until 2010, the number of large rig incidents was decreasing, and then the statistics began to trend higher.
Vehicles are not being maintained properly
When a semi truck driver fails to keep their vehicle in perfect working order, the likelihood of an accident increases significantly. In many situations, it is impossible to determine whether a vehicle has not been properly maintained. Keep your distance, however, if you can hear their brakes screaming when they stop, see that their tires are in bad condition, or otherwise sense that a large truck is not properly maintained.
Drivers with little or no experience
Once again, this can be difficult to detect from your car, but if you observe that a motorist appears anxious, makes exaggerated motions, or otherwise appears inexperienced, you should presume that they are at a high risk of being involved in an accident. Keep your distance.
Loaded trucks that are not properly secured
There can be significant consequences if a truck is not properly loaded, whether it is laden with too much goods or just unevenly loaded, which can impair the driver’s ability to manage their vehicle. In the event that you come across a truck that is clearly skewed in one direction or otherwise not loaded correctly, you should avoid driving near it.
Drivers who are distracted or fatigued are at risk
Anyone who is distracted or fatigued while driving is putting himself and others in risk. It is significantly more hazardous for a commercial truck driver. If you observe a motorist yawning, talking on the phone, or generally not paying attention to the road, you are looking at a driver who is more likely to be involved in an accident.
The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker may be reached at 800-333-0000 if you are involved in a big rig accident.
