What Are the Top Causes of Commercial Truck Accidents?

As you drive through the state of Tennessee, especially on the highways, there is no escaping a large number of commercial trucks. These vehicles are everywhere.

While there are things you can do to remain safe, such as keeping your distance from these trucks when possible, you can only do so much.

There are times when commercial truck drivers are responsible for causing an accident. Here are some of the top causes:

• Inadequate training, which often falls back on the trucking company

• System of compensation that pushes a trucker to drive faster and get less rest

• Unrealistic schedules

• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol

• Distracted driving, which can include things such as texting, eating, drinking and talking on a cellphone

• Unsecured load

• Reckless driving, including but not limited to speeding, swerving and changing lanes without signaling

As the driver of a passenger vehicle, you only have control over what you’re doing. Obviously, you can’t control other people, including truckers. Instead, you have to keep a close watch on these vehicles, hoping that it will be enough to help you avoid an accident.

Unfortunately, even when you remain vigilant, there is no guaranteed way to prevent a truck accident. It only takes one mistake by a commercial trucker to cause a crash that can injure you, among many others on the road.

If you find yourself in this position, you’ll want to stay where you are until help arrives. A truck accident can cause serious injury, so you shouldn’t hesitate to seek medical attention.

Once you receive treatment and have a clear understanding of your injuries and prognosis, you can learn more about what caused the accident. This will also lead you to focus on your legal rights, as you may find yourself in position to seek compensation from the negligent party.

It’s never easy to deal with the aftermath of a truck accident, but you have rights that you need to protect.