Truck accidents happen for many different reasons. Some of the most common causes of these crashes are:
Distracted driving – A tractor-trailer is a complex vehicle. Drivers need to focus on the truck’s controls and pay attention to the road. Unfortunately, many do not. They may text or talk on phones while driving or engage in other distractions.
Fatigued driving – Truckers can be on the road for many hours at a time. Some drivers fail to properly log their hours and violate the FMCSA’s hours-of-service regulations which are supposed to limit their driving hours and prevent drowsy driving crashes.
Impaired driving – Truckers that use alcohol or drugs while on the road – even certain types of prescription drugs – can lack the motor skills and judgment that it takes to safely operate a big rig. Texas, like many other states, sets a 0.04 blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for commercial motor vehicle drivers.
Inexperience – Some trucking companies hire drivers who lack proper training and experience, or they fail to adequate supervise and monitor their driving.
Poor truck maintenance – Truckers and trucking companies must regularly conduct pre- and post-trip inspections of their vehicles and make any necessary repairs. A poorly maintained truck can be a hazard on the road.