Each year, there are over 100,000 large trucks involved in severe accidents that lead to death or injury. Studies by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration point towards a rising increase in such accidents over the years. Reading statistics won’t keep you safe, though. Let’s look at the top five most common mistakes that lead to truck accidents in Dallas, TX.
Shifting Lanes
According to reports, each year 32% of large trucks either ran into another lane, or off the road completely. This statistic does not include those instances where truck drivers were forced to avoid an irresponsible motorist, however.
Speeding
Nearly 30% of commercial trucks drove too fast for road conditions, had an unexpected cargo shift, or a complete systems failure. While even experienced drivers cannot prevent cargo shifts or systems failures, speeding is avoidable.
Rear-End Collision
Rear-end collisions are all about physics. An object traveling at the same speed, but with the huge mass of a semi-truck or big rig, will take longer to slow down than your average passenger car, van, or SUV. If the driver is not paying attention, and they do not brake fast enough, a rear-end collision is likely.
Driver Error
Driver errors are all too common in the commercial trucking industry. Driver error includes factors like:
- Traveling too fast for weather conditions
- Being unfamiliar with the roadway
- Over-the-counter drug use
- Fatigue
- Work pressure
- Illegal maneuvering
- A jack-knifed tractor-trailer
- Illegal drug use
- Alcohol
- Internal distractions in the cab
Mobile Devices
With the increase in mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets, more drivers, and that includes semi-truck drivers, are distracted behind the wheel. Texting while driving or talking on the phone can distract a driver who may be already fatigued. These conditions can unfortunately lead to an accident.
Call Today!
If you’ve been involved in a truck accident in Dallas, TX, call The Durham Firm at (214) 222-4000 today. We help drivers fight for their rights daily!
