Truck accidents are some of the most dangerous and devastating incidents on the road. Due to their size and weight, trucks can cause catastrophic injuries and significant property damage when they crash.
But what leads to these severe collisions? The main causes of truck accidents include driver error, maintenance failures, overloading, and the violation of trucking regulations. Our Los Angeles truck accident lawyers can explain the contributing factors in a truck accident and why they are crucial for building a strong legal case and securing fair compensation.
What Are the Leading Causes of Truck Accidents?
Truck accidents can happen for a variety of reasons, often involving negligence, mechanical issues, or environmental factors. Below are the most common causes of commercial truck accidents:
Driver Error
Truck driver negligence is a leading cause of truck accidents. Examples include:
- Distracted Driving: Texting, eating, or engaging in other distractions while driving
- Fatigue: Violating hours-of-service regulations and driving while overly tired
- Impaired Driving: Operating a truck under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Speeding or Reckless Driving: Driving too fast for road conditions or engaging in aggressive maneuvers
- Inexperience: Lack of proper training or experience in handling large commercial vehicles
Vehicle Maintenance Issues
Proper maintenance is critical to ensuring the safety of trucks on the road. Common maintenance-related causes of accidents include:
- Brake Failures
- Tire Blowouts
- Malfunctioning Lights or Signals
- Worn-Out Steering or Suspension Systems
When trucking companies or drivers neglect regular inspections and repairs, they put everyone on the road at risk.
Overloaded or Improperly Loaded Cargo
Trucks carrying heavy or improperly secured loads are more likely to be involved in accidents. Some common issues include:
- Uneven Weight Distribution: Making the truck harder to control or more likely to tip over.
- Unsecured Cargo: Causing items to shift or fall onto the road during transit.
- Overloading: Exceeding weight limits, which can strain the truck’s braking and steering systems.
Roadway Hazards
Unsafe road conditions can contribute to truck accidents. These hazards may include:
- Potholes
- Uneven Road Surfaces
- Inadequate Signage
- Construction Zones
In some cases, government entities responsible for maintaining the roads may be held liable for accidents caused by these hazards.
Violation of Trucking Regulations
The trucking industry is governed by strict state and federal regulations designed to promote safety. Violations can lead to accidents and may include:
- Ignoring Hours-of-Service Rules: Allowing drivers to exceed the legal limits for time spent behind the wheel.
- Failure to Conduct Pre-Trip Inspections: Skipping mandatory safety checks before hitting the road.
- Inadequate Driver Training: Failing to ensure that drivers are properly trained and licensed.
Third-Party Negligence
In some cases, other drivers or third parties may contribute to causing a truck accident. For example:
- A reckless driver cutting off a truck could cause it to jackknife.
- A negligent maintenance provider failing to repair critical truck components could lead to mechanical failure.
Why Identifying All Causes Is Crucial for Your Case
Truck accidents are often complicated, involving several contributing factors and potentially multiple liable parties. Identifying all causes of the accident is essential for:
- Maximizing Compensation: Ensuring that all responsible parties are held accountable and that you recover the full amount of damages you’re entitled to
- Building a Strong Case: Presenting clear evidence of negligence or regulatory violations to support your claim
- Preventing Future Accidents: Holding negligent parties accountable to encourage safer practices across the trucking industry
(310) 526-8383How A Lawyer Can Help
Our Los Angeles personal injury lawyers know how overwhelming the aftermath of a truck accident can be. We work to take the burden off your shoulders so you can focus on healing. Our experienced attorneys will:
- Investigate Thoroughly: Examine driver logs, maintenance records, black box data, and other evidence to uncover all contributing factors.
- Identify All Liable Parties: Hold drivers, trucking companies, manufacturers, and other negligent parties accountable.
- Negotiate Aggressively: Fight for a fair settlement that reflects the full scope of your losses, from medical bills to pain and suffering.
- Take Your Case to Court: If necessary, we’re prepared to present a compelling case before a judge and jury.
How Long Do I Have to File a Truck Accident Claim?
The time limit for filing a truck accident claim, known as the statute of limitations, differs from state to state, making it essential to understand the specific deadlines in your jurisdiction. In California, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit.
However, if your claim is against a government entity—for example, due to unsafe road conditions—the deadline is significantly shorter, typically only six months. Failing to meet these deadlines could jeopardize your ability to seek compensation. That’s why acting promptly and consulting a knowledgeable attorney is vital to ensure your claim is submitted on time.
(310) 526-8383Contact a Truck Accident Law Firm for a Free Case Evaluation
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, understanding the main causes is the first step toward seeking justice. At Omega Law Group, we’re dedicated to uncovering the truth, holding negligent parties accountable, and securing full compensation.
Let our family take care of your family. Contact us today for a free consultation. We’re ready to guide you through the process and fight for the justice and financial recovery you need to move forward.
