Truck drivers are highly skilled, but just because they have extensive training doesn’t mean they are not prone to errors. Driver errors, mechanical errors, and even employer negligence often leads to devastating truck crashes on highways throughout the country – and especially in New York. If you have been injured in an accident with a semi-truck, you could be entitled to compensation. You will need to contact an attorney right away to explore your options.
Trucking accidents have increased over the past few years, according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Accidents with semi-trucks often lead to severe health issues, long-term disability or death – making them a growing concern in the U.S. The sheer weight of a semi-truck forces them to cause much greater damage than a regular passenger vehicle; in fact, they are about 20 times heavier than your average passenger car.
Five Errors That Lead to Devastating Truck Accidents
The most common cause of accidents involving semi-trucks are errors – whether that is a driver error, mechanical error, etc. Some of the most common errors seen include:
- Driver errors. This is the leading cause of accidents involving semi-trucks in the United States. These errors can include things like substance abuse, inattention, distractions, or even driver fatigue. When a driver cannot react properly to traffic, he or she often causes accidents.
- Truck maintenance errors. It is the responsibility of the truck’s owner or the company managing the trucking service to maintain their semi-trucks and keep them safe. When equipment fails, the owner of the truck, as well as the mechanics responsible for the truck, could be held liable for any injuries or deaths that may occur. FMCSA requires all companies to perform pre-trip inspections on their vehicles. If the mechanic inspecting the truck does not properly inspect or repair issues, it is considered negligence.
- Driver and weather issues. Drivers of semi-trucks must drive responsibly based on the weather conditions. Because a large truck takes longer to slow down or come to a stop, they need to compensate for their weight as well as the weather. For example, a truck driver speeding in the snow and ice is driving negligently.
- Loading errors. Semi-trucks need to have balanced loads in order to maintain themselves. When the load is not configured properly, the truck may malfunction, or even tip over. Imbalanced loads are the common reason why trucks topple over. They can also lead to excess debris on the roads as items fall off the truck bed due to being unsecured or loaded improperly.
- Hiring errors. Trucking companies are often finding themselves meeting hefty demands – without enough properly trained drivers. In order to compensate, they will hire new drivers without adequate training or even background checks. These drivers and their inexperience can lead to accidents – especially when these drivers are not in compliance with the FMCSA regulations.
Were You Injured in a Truck Accident? Contact a New York Attorney
If you or a loved one was involved in a car accident with a commercial vehicle or semi-truck, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact the attorneys at Schwartzapfel® Lawyers P.C. today to explore your options. We can assess your case and help preserve your right to compensation under the law. Schedule a consultation today at 877-737-4806, or contact us online with your legal questions.
