All motor vehicle accidents need to be taken seriously, but some can be more serious than others. Therefore, you need to make sure you prioritize your safety whenever you get behind the wheel. This is particularly important for those who drive trucks in the commercial sector. Because of the sheer size of trucks, truck accidents are always more serious. Even a minor truck accident can lead to tens of thousands of dollars in property damage and mountainous medical bills.
Therefore, it is important to learn more about safety standards regarding the operation of commercial vehicles as well as some of the most common causes of truck accidents. Why do truck accidents take place?
The Truck Was Not Properly Maintained
One of the most common reasons why truck accidents take place is that the vehicle was not properly maintained. Similar to a car, a truck has to go into the shop from time to time. Professionals need to make sure the tires are working well, the engine is functional, and that the brakes work as they are supposed to. Unfortunately, there are some people who do not get their vehicles maintained appropriately. As a result, there is a much higher chance of that vehicle being involved in an accident. You should work with a lawyer who can take a look at the log and make sure the vehicle was maintained appropriately.
The Driver Was Tired
Many truck accidents happen because the driver was tired. You should never operate a motor vehicle while tired, and this is even more important for a truck. Unfortunately, a lot of truck drivers try to stay awake as long as possible because they are paid by the mile. If truck drivers are paid by the mile, they may try to take drugs that make it easier for them to stay awake. Unfortunately, these drugs wear off, and the driver could fall asleep immediately. As a result, they lose control of the vehicle, leading to a disastrous accident. An attorney can take a look at the log and make sure the driver was not exceeding his or her time limits.
The Driver Was Not Trained Properly
Driving a truck is very different from driving a car. As a result, drivers need to be trained properly before they get behind the wheel of a tractor-trailer. Some companies want to get their drivers on the road as quickly as possible. This means that they may not train their drivers appropriately. If someone has not been trained properly, they do not know how to react in a dangerous situation. This dramatically increases the chances of them being involved in a motor vehicle accident. A lawyer can take a look at the training protocols of a company and make sure they are appropriate for the industry. If not, the company could be responsible.
Work With a Truck Accident Lawyer
If you are involved in a motor vehicle accident with a truck, you need to see a doctor as quickly as possible. There is a chance that you may have suffered medical injuries. Then, do not forget to reach out to a truck accident lawyer who can help you. This is a complicated situation that has to be handled by a professional. An attorney can do a comprehensive investigation and make sure that all relevant information is known. Then, the attorney can also make sure you receive a settlement that is appropriate given what you have suffered. Even though it can be intimidating, you do not have to go through this alone. An attorney can make sure your rights are properly protected.
