Top 6 Causes of Truck Accidents & Tips to Prevent Them

Sometimes there’s nothing anyone can do to avoid a truck accident, but that doesn’t mean drivers should stay home. Here are some common accident causes to be aware of and prevention tips to make sure we all arrive at our destinations safely.

1. Bad weather

   From rain to snow to ice and everything in between, these all contribute to poor driving conditions. They could cause truck accidents left and right if the drivers aren’t careful.
   
   Tip: To avoid a rollover or jackknife, drive at a reduced speed in bad weather and remember to leave plenty of room between your truck and the car in front of you.

2. Bad road conditions

   Concrete makes for smooth driving conditions, but it’s also prone to deterioration. This results in potholes that cause tire blowouts and can knock the truck out of alignment (depending on the dimensions of the hole).
   
   Tip: Simply reducing the speed or moving into another lane if the driver knows what’s coming will help reduce the risk of a truck accident.

3. Improper training

   Special training is required in order to operate and drive a semi-truck because they are much more difficult to maneuver. Without the proper instruction, drivers can easily overcorrect and lose control of their vehicle and run the risk of a rollover, malfunction or overload.
   
   Tip: There are driving schools that specifically teach people how to safely drive a semi-truck. Anyone considering a job driving one of these should enroll to get the proper training and certification on how to drive and maintain their truck.

4. Vehicle malfunction

   Some repair shops and mechanics don’t always do a good job of taking care of the vehicles they service, which can result in a plethora of vehicle malfunctions. It’s also possible that the manufacturer for any number of the parts needed in a truck sold a faulty product.
   
   Tip: From an oil change to alignment to new tires, it’s important to keep a truck up-to-date on all of its scheduled maintenance. If you’re able and trained, do it yourself — that way you know the job gets done right.

5. Overloaded cargo

   It’s tempting to transport more cargo than the truck is legally allowed to carry in order to make fewer trips and get a better paycheck. But this makes the truck more likely to rollover. The rules are there for a reason.
   
   Tip: Avoid hauling over 80,000 lbs., since this is the legal maximum weight a semi-truck should be when carrying a load.

6. Negligent driving

   Negligent driving includes speeding, tailgating, driving under the influence and drowsy driving. In order to make their deadlines, sometimes drivers will speed up or drive longer hours than they should, which can result in severe, sometimes fatal, accidents.
   
   Tip: Getting the proper rest and leaving ample room between yourself and the other cars on the road will go a long way toward avoiding any accidents.

7. Don't Settle for Less, Get More

   There’s more than one way to cause a truck accident. Luckily, there are also several ways to help prevent them. If the worst should happen, however, reach out to a trusted attorney immediately. They’ll fight for your rights in the courtroom while you focus on healing.