The most common causes of truck accidents

The most common causes of truck accidents

On Behalf of Porter Ramsay LLP | May, 26, 2021 | Personal Injury Law

Trucks are an essential part of the British Columbia economy, and truck drivers work hard to move goods to all corners of the province. Despite their professional skill and vigilance, truck drivers and those around them do still contend with the risk of accidents like all motorists.

There are some particular risk factors that make truck accidents more likely, and understanding these is key to understanding the accidents that happen as well as preventing future collisions.

The most common causes of truck accidents include:

  • Fatigue: Driving while tired is a risk for anyone on the road, especially someone driving a large truck. This is why a maximum number of driving hours are mandated for truck drivers, to ensure they have adequate rest.
  • Driving under the influence: Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol is very dangerous for anyone behind the wheel. Truck drivers who drive while under the influence, or are on the road with someone driving impaired, can find themselves at significantly higher risk of an accident.
  • Maintenance: A safe drive requires a safe vehicle, and truck drivers can find themselves at risk if they are driving a truck with maintenance issues. Regular maintenance and fixing of any faulty parts is key to safety on the road.
  • Loading errors: Trucks must be loaded properly in order to be safe on the road. When a truck is not properly packed, the unstable weight distribution can be a hazard.

In addition to the above, the usual safety considerations with driving such as the risks of speeding and distraction can cause a truck accident. Truck accidents can be particularly devastating, both in terms of the cost of the damage to the vehicle(s) involved and, much more importantly, the risk to the individuals involved. Those hurt in a truck accident should speak to a British Columbia personal injury lawyer to understand their options for restitution.

Share this article