Time and time again, we learn about terrible collisions involving large trucks on U.S. roads and highways. The results usually prove fatal or lead to catastrophic injuries from which the victim may never recover. Some of these incidents are preventable.
Recently in Minnesota, a 64-year-old SUV driver died in a nighttime collision on a state highway. His vehicle collided with large truck that had blocked both highway lanes as the truck driver backed into a driveway. What was the cause of this Sept. 10 collision? Investigators continue their probe, but, as we know, there are many reasons why large truck accidents occur. Blame may lie with an assortment of parties.
Truck drivers, maintenance firms
Nationwide statistics showed that 2019, an estimated 159,000 people sustained injuries in crashes that involved large trucks, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). And police reports disclosed that an estimated 538,000 big-rig trucks were involved in traffic accidents in 2019. Those large truck collisions also led to the deaths of more than 5,000 people died in 2019. A total of 58 died in crashes involving big-rig trucks while traveling on Minnesota roads.
Here is a list of some of the players that may be at fault in large truck accidents:
- Truck drivers: Some truck drivers are in a hurry because of deadlines they must meet. They may speed or even subscribe to distracted and reckless driving. And, since many drive excessive hours, they may be tired, drowsy or fall asleep at the wheel. Some turn to alcohol and controlled substances, too. The NHTSA reported that 2% of truck drivers in fatal collisions in 2019 were drunk.
- Employers of truck drivers: Truck driving companies rely on good and safe drivers who should be experienced and provided with the right training. An inexperienced and ill-trained driver may cause a collision, and such a fault lies with truck driving companies for cutting corners to get freight out the door and on the road.
- Truck maintenance firms: A trucking fleet must be operational and with no equipment breakdowns. Hasty, sloppy or ill-trained mechanics can make mistakes when servicing a large truck, leading to problems with engines, brakes and steering.
- Truck makers: Manufacturers have the responsibility to introduce safe trucks to the market. However, sometimes, defective parts and equipment may lead to a truck’s malfunction, causing serious road accidents.
- Shipping and loading companies: An improperly loaded trailer usually causes an unbalanced load. The cargo may shift at every turn and stop. This can lead to a vehicle overturning.
Any of these parties or a combination of them may lead to a crash. As a motorist, take great care when sharing the road with a big-rig truck. Understand that your vigilance may save your life.