Motor vehicle crashes involving large trucks are not as prevalent statistically when compared to cars and other light vehicles, but there is greater devastation. As time goes by, the number of accidents involving trucks is increasing along public traffic ways.

Who is responsible for these accidents? The truck driver, the vehicle owner, the company owner, the shipper (loader), and the manufacturer of specific vehicle parts, may be made accountable.

Being aware of the causes

Based on consolidated statistical data, the main culprit in trucking road accident is brake failure. This is not surprising since a tractor-trailer will travel 300 feet before coming to a complete stop. Concomitant issues may compromise braking capacity. Another significant cause is a failure with lights. When the driver or operator neglects to check the lights, or are not in the habit of ensuring each light is working, an accident may be forthcoming. Log violations are significant, including risky turns, driver intoxication, and fatigue.

Overall, safety violations collisions are the top causes of trucking accidents. Problems involving equipment occur two-thirds of the time, while service violations consists a third of the cause of mishaps. Equipment issues involve the tires, as well as the steering systems and axles. Inadequate maintenance contributes significantly to poor vehicle performance. Perhaps, one of the most important factors to consider in trucking catastrophes is the presence of a dangerous or unqualified driver on the wheel. Without a stringent hiring system, reckless drivers may be given a place behind the wheel, and this alone spells disaster.

Dealing with the consequences

The trucking industry is important to many businesses, and accidents must be sorted out to determine who is accountable. A truck accident lawyer in Salt Lake City can help with legal matters when one is involved in a road mishap. Insurance questions come up, particularly when there are casualties involved. It is important to establish the causation of events so that there is no need to point fingers.