Car accidents happen. But when they happen with an 18-wheeler, they can be especially dangerous. While trucking is a business that provides many Americans with good, honest pay, truckers are subject to road accidents just like four-wheel drivers are.
While drivers can do a lot to avoid these accidents by driving defensively, there are also causes for accidents that are out of their control. Here are some common reasons for accidents involving 18-wheelers.
Driver error
Like any other driver, truck drivers can make errors. These errors could be caused by an honest mistake, or by another factor, such as fatigue or intoxication.
Vehicle failure
18-wheelers drive for thousands of miles every day. Because of this, proper vehicle maintenance is an important part of preventing accidents. However, vehicle failures may occur for a variety of reasons, including:
- A manufacturer producing a faulty component
- A trucking company neglecting to maintain a vehicle properly
- A driver failing to report faults in a vehicle.
Loading errors
Loading errors are also a common cause of accidents. There are specific rules, which regulate methods for securing cargo and limit the weight that 18-wheelers can carry. Improper loads may lead to accidents on the road.
Responding to an accident
Suffering a motor vehicle accident can be devastating. In addition to medical bills, you may miss work, suffer from mental and physical pain and even lose your life.
If you or a loved one are ever involved in an accident with an 18-wheeler, you should think about pursuing a personal injury claim to hold the proper party responsible and mitigate any suffering you may have experienced.
