The facts you should know about semi-truck crashes include the main causes of semi-truck collisions, the types of accidents that are common with semi-trucks, and weather conditions that often contribute to semi-truck crashes.
The role of truck maintenance when it comes to preventing crashes is important, too. Although information is important, learning about semi-truck collisions doesn’t always mean you’ll be able to prevent a crash or stop a collision if it is already in progress.
As such, if you are the victim of a semi-truck crash, reach out to an Indianapolis truck accident lawyer for legal advice and guidance on how to proceed.
The Main Causes of Semi-Truck Crashes You Should Know About
Semi-truck accidents happen for a variety of reasons, and these crashes often stem from a combination of factors. Here are examples of circumstances that make semi-truck collisions more likely to occur:
- Driver fatigue: Long hours on the road can make truck drivers especially tired. They may struggle to stay alert, resulting in increased fatigue. Drowsy driving is a very common cause of semi-truck crashes.
- Distracted driving: Like all other drivers, semi-truck operators can be distracted by cell phones, GPS devices, or other electronics while on the road. If they use these tools while operating a vehicle, they can impair their ability to react quickly and safely.
- Improper maintenance: Failure to properly maintain a truck can lead to mechanical failures—such as brake issues or tire blowouts—both of which can increase the chances of causing an accident on the road.
- Speeding: Semi-trucks take longer to stop than smaller vehicles. Drivers who choose to speed end up reducing their ability to stop in time, which often results in collisions.
- Weather conditions: Poor weather conditions—such as rain, snow, or fog—can make semi-trucks harder to maneuver, and this naturally increases the likelihood of crashes.
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Types of Accidents that are Common with Semi-Trucks
Semi-truck accidents differ significantly from other types of car accidents because of their size and weight. These are examples of accidents that involve semi-trucks:
- Jackknife accidents occur when a truck’s trailer swings out of control and forms a “V” shape with the truck cab. This kind of semi-truck collision can block multiple lanes and cause severe pileups.
- Rollover crashes: Semi-trucks are more prone to rolling over than smaller vehicles, especially when they are carrying a heavy load or taking a sharp turn at a high speed.
- Rear-end collisions: When a semi-truck rear-ends a smaller vehicle, the results are often catastrophic. The size and weight of semi-trucks make this type of crash particularly dangerous.
- Underride accidents: In underride accidents, a smaller vehicle crashes into the back of a semi-truck and slides underneath its trailer. This kind of collision is often fatal due to the damage caused to the smaller vehicle.
- Wide turn accidents: Semi-trucks require a lot of space when they need to turn, and a collision can easily take place if a smaller vehicle attempts to pass a semi-truck while it’s making a wide turn.
Weather Conditions that Often Contribute to Semi-Truck Crashes
Weather conditions can increase the chances of semi-truck collisions. Bad weather—such as rain, snow, ice, or fog—can make it more difficult for semi-truck drivers to maintain control of their vehicles.
- Rain and wet roads: Rain reduces traction and increases stopping distances, both of which can be particularly dangerous for large trucks that take longer to stop.
- Snow and ice: Icy or snowy roads make semi-truck operators more likely to lose control of their vehicles.
- Fog: Reduced visibility in foggy conditions can make it difficult for semi-truck drivers to see other vehicles or obstacles on the road.
The Role of Truck Maintenance When it Comes to Preventing Crashes
When semi-trucks are properly maintained, they are less likely to get into maintenance-related collisions. However, failing to take care of trucks before clearing them for use on the road can result in semi-truck crashes.
- Mechanical failures: Semi-trucks require regular maintenance to make sure their brakes, tires, and engines are in good working order. Failure to maintain the vehicle can result in mechanical failures, such as brake malfunctions or tire blowouts.
- Cargo issues: Poorly secured cargo can shift around while the semi-truck is in motion, affecting its overall balance and making it more prone to accidents. Proper loading and unloading are essential to prevent semi-truck collisions.
- Pre-trip inspections: Truck drivers are required to perform pre-trip inspections to ensure that their trucks are in proper working condition. Failure to do so can lead to serious crashes caused by avoidable mechanical issues.
Reach Out to an Indianapolis Truck Accident Law Firm Today for More Facts About Semi-Truck Crashes
Now that you understand what facts you should know about semi-truck crashes, you might have a better idea of how to stay safe on the road. However, if you were involved in a semi-truck crash, Vaughan & Vaughan is here to help.
For more than a century, we’ve been dedicated to securing justice and recovering over $25 million for our clients. We understand how confusing the aftermath of a semi-truck crash can be, but we can help you pursue financial settlements that compensate you for your damages.
And remember, we offer free consultations, meaning we only take a cut when you win your case. That way, instead of worrying about legal fees, you can stay focused on what really matters—your physical health and mental well-being.
