When carrying out your daily activities, it’s highly likely that you will encounter commercial trucks. Like any other vehicles, trucks have become an integral part of our lives. From the food we consume to the fuel we use, these tractor-trailers play an indispensable role in ensuring goods reach their destinations safely and efficiently. According to data from the Texas Department of Transportation, there were over 19,000 commercial vehicle accidents in 2021 alone.
Unfortunately, accidents involving these trucks are often severe. Apart from loss of life, an 18-wheeler wreck can lead to life-threatening and permanent injuries that necessitate specialized care. As a result, the lives of victims drastically change, making them reliant on their families and friends. Fortunately, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages. However, you will need to establish fault, and a crucial step in doing so is understanding how the accident occurred. An experienced truck wreck lawyer can assist you in determining the cause of the accident and establishing the liability of the other parties, saving you time and money in the process. Contact our firm to speak with an attorney about the common causes of truck accidents in Pearland.
Distracted Truck Drivers in Pearland
The majority of trucking accidents occur due to driver inattention. When commercial vehicle drivers fail to pay proper attention to the road, they may follow too closely, travel at excessive speeds, or fail to notice a traffic slowdown. These lapses in attention often result in significant consequences.
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Driving Under the Influence
Operating any vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a recipe for disaster. Like all drivers, truck drivers are expected to adhere to high standards of discipline when operating their trucks. This means refraining from activities that impair their judgment, such as drinking and driving. If it is established that the truck driver was intoxicated at the time of the accident, they will be held directly liable for causing the accident and responsible for paying damages.
Driver Fatigue
Truck drivers cover extensive distances while delivering cargo to various locations daily. They are under pressure from their employers to deliver the cargo within specified schedules and as quickly as possible. Consequently, they often do not allocate enough time for breaks and rest. Fatigue can lead to drivers falling asleep behind the wheel, posing risks not only to themselves and their cargo but also to other motorists.
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Brake Failure
Unlike other vehicles, most trucks utilize pressurized air for braking. This braking system is designed to bring the truck to a stop within approximately 100 feet when traveling at speeds of at least 40 mph. However, when the air brake system malfunctions, the truck becomes a dangerous force, resulting in collisions with other vehicles, property, and pedestrians on the road. If auto parts are the cause of the tractor-trailer wreck, you may pursue a claim against the manufacturer.
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Overloaded Cargo and 18-Wheeler Collisions
Each truck has specific weight limitations for its cargo. However, when the trailer is loaded beyond these limits, the excessive weight makes it challenging to control the vehicle. The center of gravity may suddenly shift, causing the truck driver to get involved in an accident.
Blind Spot Truck Accidents
Trucks have the largest blind spots, also known as “no zones,” compared to other types of vehicles. Blind spots on trucks exist on the right and left sides, as well as directly behind them. In these areas, the truck driver has limited visibility of other motorists or pedestrians. These blind spots are a common cause of many semi-truck crashes in Pearland.
Poor Weather Conditions
Driving in adverse weather conditions reduces the trucker’s visibility. Fog and mist make it difficult for the driver to clearly see what’s ahead, as well as in their blind spots. Moreover, icy and wet road surfaces can cause the tractor-trailer to jackknife during braking, leading to accidents.
Determining the Cause of the Tractor-Trailer Wreck
If you have sustained injuries in an 18-wheeler crash, our law firm, Lone Star Injury Attorneys, is here to assist you in filing legal claims for compensation. Irrespective of where or how the injury occurred, our lawyers will collaborate closely with investigative officers and expert witnesses to determine the cause of the semi-truck collision. In your accident case, you will be facing the truck driver, insurance company, and the trucking company. Since you may not be familiar with the intricacies of such cases, it is advisable to hire a skilled Pearland truck accident attorney who possesses a deep understanding of the legal process.
Contact Us to Discuss the Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Pearland
Truck accidents in Pearland can occur due to various common causes, although they may not always be immediately apparent at the time of the crash. Our experienced lawyers at Lone Star Injury Attorneys recognize the importance of expert witnesses, such as accident reconstructionist, in shedding light on the cause of your tractor-trailer wreck. We will collaborate with these experts to pinpoint the underlying factors. Reach out to us today for a complimentary consultation.
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