Some truck accidents occur because of factors that the driver could not have easily prevented. For example, as GTG Technology Group points out, bad weather can cause a truck accident. Truck drivers may not be able to stop in time when they drive through ice, snow and rain. There may be times when they can stay off the road in inclement weather, but it is not always avoidable.
However, truckers may be able to prevent other issues from causing a collision.
Truck driver errors
Many truck accidents occur because of an error the driver makes. These errors include careless driving and speeding, as well as failing to yield the right of way to other vehicles.
Truck equipment failure
Equipment failure and irregular maintenance can play a role in crashes. If truck drivers do not regularly maintain their trucks, parts of the vehicle can wear down and become defective. Faulty brakes and disintegrating tires can cause fatal crashes.
Truck driver impairment
Drugs, alcohol and even over-the-counter medication can prevent a trucker from focusing on the road and operating the vehicle safely. Fatigue can also impair truckers. If truck drivers stay on the road too long and do not get enough rest, they may not see the brake lights of passenger vehicles in time to stop.
Truck driver distraction
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration warns that distraction plays a role in many truck accidents. Truckers may not pay attention to the road if they are using their dispatch device or their cellphone. Eating and drinking behind the wheel can also take a truck driver’s attention off the road.
The FMCSA provides driving tips that can help commercial vehicle operators prevent accidents.
