Commercial trucks are much more complicated than the pickup trucks that many of us drive. Many factors come into play when someone is driving a commercial vehicle, and it only takes one problem to cause catastrophic injuries.
There is a lot to know about how to recover from a truck accident. One of the first things to know is what causes these accidents. From the driver to the cargo, anything can go wrong.
Poor cargo loading
When the heaviest portion of cargo is on the tail-end of a vehicle, it can affect a truck’s stability. Controlling a vehicle after it is out of balance is nearly impossible, which can threaten the lives of anyone nearby.
Insufficient training and upkeep
If the driver is not prepared to drive in dangerous conditions like snow, sleet or untreated roads, the other drivers on the road are at risk. Skidding and hydroplaning are common results of poorly trained drivers.
Reckless driving
If the truck driver is speeding or recklessly driving by attempting to overtake other drivers, it can result in disastrous accidents. Regardless of the reason the truck driver has for their behavior, there is no excuse for endangering others.
Driving under the influence
In addition to the risks of illegal drugs, or driving under the influence of alcohol, truckers sometimes take caffeine or energy supplements to keep them awake behind the wheel. Unfortunately, exhaustion becomes dangerous for the truck driver or anyone else on the road.
Distracted driving
Truck drivers are susceptible to the same distractions as any other driver. The difference is that a distracted truck driver can cause more damage than other vehicles.
These causes are avoidable
The common causes of trucking accidents can be avoided if the trucker follows standard safety procedures. From loading the vehicle to driving it, no safety measure can be overlooked.
