With more than 500,000 truck accidents occurring each year, the hazards related to these incidences can be endless. In terms of which errors in judgment truck drivers are guilty of and how these can impact your safety on the road, there are five common mistakes made.
Driver Fatigue
Drowsy truck driving leads to hundreds of accidents each year, with slower reaction times and lessened decision-making abilities being cited as top concerns. Since there is a minimum rest time of 10 hours between 14-hour shifts, drivers should always ensure they get a sufficient amount of sleep during this time to avoid these unnecessary risks.
Drug and Alcohol Use
As with any person operating a motorized vehicle, driving a truck while under the influence of drugs or alcohol is illegal and can lead to harsh legal penalties and ramifications. To reduce this problem, truck companies may be required to conduct random drug tests of their employees before hiring, during long shifts, or after involvement in a crash.
Not Looking in Blindspots
If you have driven behind a truck, you may have noticed signs that say, “if you can't see us, we can't see you.” Truck drivers being unable to see in their blind spot or smaller cars driving in or entering this area can potentially have fatal consequences.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of accidents each year. Tasks like eating, drinking, talking on the phone (call or test), changing the radio station, or checking maps can contribute to thousands of distraction-related accidents.
Speeding
Speeding is, unfortunately, a prevalent and costly error in judgment that truck drivers make almost daily. Driving too fast in a four-ton vehicle can make it harder to turn or slow down, especially if going downhill, impact the ability to switch lanes, or increase accidents in bad weather.
Recovering Damages after a Truck Accident
If you or a loved one have been involved in a truck accident, you may be entitled to compensation for injuries accrued as a result of the accident. Additional damages you could potentially recover include:
- Past and future medical bills associated with the accident
- Restitution for death or loss of companionship
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
If you are seeking legal counsel for injuries or losses that were the result of a truck accident, contact Law Offices of Vic Feazell, P.C. by calling (254) 938-6885 to schedule a free consultation. We are here to help you during these trying times.