5 Common Factors in Truck Accidents
March 23, 2020
There are government regulations that have been passed to ensure truck drivers keep themselves and everyone else on the road safe. However, truck accidents are still a common occurrence. There are a number of factors that play a role in truck accidents.
Overloaded Trailers
The Department of Transportation has put an 80,000-pound weight limit on trucks. If this weight limit is exceeded, then an accident is more likely to occur. The tires can blow out due to the excess weight, as well as increase the risk of brake failure.
Driver Fatigue
Driver fatigue plays a role in about 13 percent of truck accidents. Trucking companies have put restrictions on the number of hours that truck drivers can work per day. However, many truck drivers still exceed the recommendations.
Impaired Drivers
Many drivers get behind the wheel after using drugs and alcohol. Both drugs and alcohol can impair driving. There is no test that can measure the amount of drugs that is one’s body. However, a person is considered intoxicated if their BAC is greater than 0.08. A truck driver can be arrested if their BAC is above 0.04.
It is also important to note that certain prescription drugs can impair driving. This includes antidepressants and sleep medication.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving plays a role in 8 percent of accidents. Cell phone use, eating, and adjusting the GPS system are some of the ways that drivers can get distracted.
Reckless Driving
It is not uncommon for truck drivers to drive recklessly. Ignoring speed limits, weaving in and out of traffic lanes, tailgating other drivers, and driving without the proper training are examples of reckless driving.
Contact Bulman, Jones & Cook
If you have been injured in an accident with a truck, then you will need to contact a Montana personal injury lawyer. Montana highway semi-truck attorneys can help you get compensated for your injuries.