According to the 2025 report from Consumer Shield, there are over 150,000 crashes and more than 4,500 fatalities involving truck accidents in the US. And such accidents can result in some of the worst injuries and have grave consequences.
But how bad can a collision with a truck be? We don’t often think of this question when passing on the road and in reality it can end someone’s life, in addition to those who suffered fatal injuries.
Truck accidents tend to cause more severe damages compared to other vehicular accidents. Injuries and trauma may also require longer treatment and rehabilitation. Worse still, it can affect your financial capacity and emotional well-being.
Here are things you need to be careful of in a commercial truck accident.
The Size and Weight of Commercial Trucks
Commercial trucks can haul up to 80,000 pounds. Some stretch out to 75 feet long and clearly need some space on the road.
With this size and weight, these trucks don’t turn quickly or stop on a dime like a regular car. As such, you can just imagine the fatalities it can cause when it gets out of hand.
Give enough space for truck drivers if you encounter them while driving. Overall, road users need to look out for each other to keep it safe.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents
There are several factors causing accidents on the road, and some of them may be more common than you think.
- Driver fatigue comes first as a big problem; it is really a case of long hours on the road leading to decreased alertness, and everyone is in danger.
- Another major cause is distraction while driving. Accidents usually happen due to using mobile phones or doing other activities.
- If the truck is poorly maintained, the functionality of the vehicle may result in serious traffic collisions.
- Rain and fog are particularly difficult to handle, as imprecations in visibility give short grip, which can lead to mishaps.
- Another point is the disparity in loading. When the center of gravity of the truck is shifted, controlling the truck can be difficult.
Determining the cause of the accident is a decisive factor in finding accountability, according to https://www.farmandtruckinjury.com/. Learning this can help you decide what to do after the accident.
The Impact of Collisions on Occupants of Smaller Vehicles
Small automobiles are mostly victims of car crashes. Confronting such a giant vehicle under such circumstances might pose a helpless feeling. Because significant size disparity is in force against him, it could just as well damage those supposedly outstanding automobiles.
Physical injuries can be pretty severe in this case. You may discover ramifications on your health, emotional state, and security. When you experience such incidents, you may find comfort from your family and close friends.
Legal and Financial Consequences of Truck Accidents
Accidents with commercial trucks can cause physical and emotional injuries. But more than that, you may even have to face the legal issues that follow. Some of the many problems are dealing with insurance, paying for medical care, and possibly going to court.
The money problems get a lot worse when your injuries mean you can’t work. And with trucking companies having a team of lawyers who take care of their legal concerns to protect their interests, you should also consider getting legal help.
The accident itself can be traumatic due to the tragic incident you experienced. It’s best to seek help when you know you need it.
Preventative Measures and Safety Tips for Drivers
It takes precaution to minimize errors and accidents. Safe driving practices are important to avoid any traffic collisions, let alone with commercial trucks. Give a long way, as truck drivers simply cannot stop suddenly.
Always check your blind spots while changing lanes. You should know that truck drivers have a blind spot in the middle of the back. In principle, because trucks cannot move fast or stop properly, the driver must make sure that the stopping distance is longer.
Never make sudden lane changes; always be alert with your intentions by signaling. In rough weather, slow down and be especially cautious near large vehicles. Don’t let road rage get to your head. Good execution of the preceding hints will go a long way in a safer highway. After all, you are a part of a community where safety and respect on the road are valued and at their best. Watch out for each other.
