Moving goods around the country often requires the use of semitrucks, even if these big rigs are only used for short spurts during a shipping process that also includes air, sea or rail shipping.
While the importance of semitrucks is obvious, this vital service comes with considerable risk to others. Understanding some of the possible causes of big rig collisions may be beneficial to victims of a big rig crash because they’ll need to determine the cause of their particular crash, and what parties to hold financially liable for damages.
Trucker’s actions
A trucker’s actions are sometimes the primary cause of a crash. This is common if a trucker is:
- Impaired by alcohol, drugs or medications
- Distracted
- Fatigued
- Driving aggressively
Truckers must also ensure the cargo they’re carrying is secured properly. Failing to do this could lead to cargo shifting, which could cause the trucker to lose control of the rig. The cargo can also fall off the trailer, which could become a hazard for other drivers or strike another vehicle.
Trucking company policies
Trucking company policies should empower truckers to drive safely. This isn’t possible when these companies penalize drivers for failing to meet unrealistic expectations. Truckers are bound by Hours of Service requirements and must comply with all traffic laws. Deadlines that are too tight may encourage the truckers to drive too many hours or to speed in an effort to meet the deadlines.
Mechanical issues
Every component on a semitruck has to be in good working condition in order to keep safety as a focus. If anything isn’t properly maintained or is defective, it can lead to catastrophic crashes. For example, if the hitch breaks, the trailer is left uncontrolled on the road and becomes a dangerous projectile.
Victims of semitruck crashes often need significant medical care. They may not be able to return to their job right away because their injuries are too severe. This puts them in the precarious position of needing more money to cover expenses and being unable to earn that income. Because of this, a crash can have a great negative impact on their finances. A lawsuit against the liable parties can help victims to seek the compensation they’re due for the effects of the crash.