Vehicles share the road with semitrucks on a daily basis, and those large and heavy rigs provide a valuable service in this country. Because of their massive size and weight, these commercial vehicles can cause serious damage to smaller vehicles and their occupants.
Most semitruck crashes don’t stem from only one cause. In many cases, there is a combination of causes that come together. Determining the underlying causes of the crash may help victims to determine who to hold liable in a civil personal injury case.
Causes related to the trucker
In some cases, it’s the actions of the trucker that cause the semitruck crash. Driver fatigue is one of the more common causes, despite the regulations that limit the hours on the road. Distraction is another concern, especially with the use of mobile devices. Other potential causes include impaired driving, speeding and lack of proper training.
Causes related to the rig
The condition of the rig can also play a role in crashes. Regular inspections and proper maintenance are critical, but they aren’t always prioritized by trucking companies. Things like brake failures and tire blowouts are common mechanical culprits.
The securement of cargo on the rig can also cause crashes. Cargo that’s not secured according to regulations can shift, which can lead to the trucker losing control. In some cases, the cargo may come off the rig.
Causes related to the trucking company
It’s sometimes possible that the trucking company is the common denominator in these crashes. When these companies don’t take care of the rigs or empower the truckers to make decisions that are based on safety, crashes can occur.
Victims of semitruck crashes often have considerable expenses related to their injuries. They have the option of seeking compensation for their injuries, but their time to do this is limited by state law. It may be beneficial for them to work with someone who understands the circumstances and can help them to keep their case moving forward.