Fatal Trucking Accidents

The loss of a loved one in a trucking accident can leave an entire family devastated and unsure what to do next.  If you have unfortunately found yourself in this situation, the dedicated team at VanDerGinst Law would be honored to help you navigate these difficult times.  Our fatal truck accident lawyers won’t rush to accept a quick but inadequate settlement. Instead, they are prepared to go to the distance to be sure your family obtains the compensation they deserve.

How Common are Fatal Trucking Accidents?

Although there are fewer trucking accidents than crashes involving passenger vehicles, commercial truck accidents can have devastating consequences, often resulting in severe injuries and fatalities.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2019, there were a total of 36,096 fatalities in motor vehicle crashes in the United States. Out of these, 4,119 fatalities (11.4%) involved large trucks, including commercial trucks.  It is important to note that while commercial trucks make up a smaller percentage of vehicles on the road compared to passenger vehicles, they can cause severe damage and injuries due to their size and weight. The NHTSA also reports that in fatal crashes involving large trucks and passenger vehicles, occupants of passenger vehicles are more likely to be fatally injured than occupants of the trucks.  Factors such as driver fatigue, impaired driving, speeding, distracted driving, and inadequate maintenance can contribute to accidents involving commercial trucks. To mitigate these risks, there are regulations and safety measures in place, such as hours-of-service rules for truck drivers, mandatory inspections, and requirements for commercial driver’s licenses.

Common Causes of Fatal Trucking Accidents

• Driver Fatigue: One of the leading causes of commercial truck accidents is driver fatigue. Long hours on the road, demanding schedules, and inadequate rest periods can contribute to drowsy driving. To address this issue, trucking companies should strictly enforce regulations on driver working hours and encourage drivers to take regular breaks. Additionally, the use of technology, such as electronic logging devices, can help monitor and prevent excessive driving hours.
• Distracted Driving: Distracted driving is a significant concern in all types of accidents, including those involving commercial trucks. Distractions such as texting, talking on the phone, eating, or using in-cab technology can divert a truck driver’s attention from the road. Implementing strict policies prohibiting the use of mobile devices while driving, as well as providing education and awareness programs, can help reduce distracted driving incidents.
• Poor Vehicle Maintenance: Neglected vehicle maintenance can lead to mechanical failures, such as brake failures or tire blowouts, which can result in catastrophic accidents. Trucking companies should prioritize regular inspections, maintenance, and repairs to ensure their vehicles are in optimal condition. Implementing comprehensive maintenance programs and conducting routine checks can help identify potential issues before they become major safety concerns.
• Speeding and Reckless Driving: Excessive speeding and reckless driving by commercial truck drivers significantly increases the risk of accidents. Stricter enforcement of speed limits, along with continuous driver training programs, can help instill a safety-first mindset among truck drivers. Developing a culture of responsible driving can contribute to reducing the number of fatal accidents caused by speeding and reckless behavior.
• Inadequate Training and Experience: Insufficient training and limited experience can make truck drivers more susceptible to errors on the road. Trucking companies should invest in comprehensive training programs that cover various aspects of safe driving, load securement, and emergency procedures. Additionally, mentoring programs pairing experienced drivers with new recruits can help enhance their skills and knowledge.