If you have spent time driving on the highway, you know that commercial trucks are all over the place. You may also know that these drivers are not always doing what they should regarding safety and following the road rules. Keep reading to learn more about common causes of truck accidents.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents
Truck accidents happen for many reasons, including but not limited to the following:
- Lack of training in regard to safety, defensive driving and technique
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Drowsy driving, often related to staying on the road for too many consecutive hours
- A system of compensation that encourages a trucker to skip breaks and/or drive faster than the speed limit
- Reckless driving, which comes in many forms (such as speeding and swerving)
It’s good to understand why truck accidents happen, as this can help prevent road trouble. Unfortunately, this knowledge does not guarantee that you will never be part of an accident. You could still find yourself in this compromising position at some point in the future.
What to Do If You’re In a Truck Accident
If you are involved in a truck accident, here are the three steps you need to take:
- Move your car to safety if you can do so
- Call 911 to ensure that an ambulance arrives at the scene (along with police)
- Receive immediate medical treatment for your injuries
In addition to these three steps, you’ll want to learn more about the cause of the accident. Did the trucker do something in particular that led to the crash?
If you find that the other party was negligent, you may be able to seek compensation for your motor vehicle accident injuries and other losses. Doing so starts with learning more about your legal rights. With this knowledge, you’ll have a clear idea of the steps you need to take shortly. Moving forward appropriately can go a long way in helping you get your life back on track.
