It is among the country’s busiest highways, and every day, thousands of big rigs plow down California-descended streets. Whatever their importance in the economy, however, the people on the road who are affected by them will also pay for that Due to the sheer weight and size of a big rig, 18-wheeler accidents can be catastrophic. It is beneficial for drivers to be aware of the more typical causes of accidents in this class to avert the costly mistake of an accident involving big rigs.
Remember these five things:
1. Distracted driving
However, others are rare for the wrong reasons -for example, distracted driving takes the top spot as one of the leading causes of car crashes, period, and big rigs are no exception. Distractions like texting and driving, adjusting the GPS, and eating while behind the wheel are the things that take a driver’s head away from the road. A few seconds of inattention can be enough for a truck driver; it takes a big rig much longer to stop or react than smaller vehicles.
2. Driver Fatigue
Truck drivers often work hours that are both long and irregular, the better to meet the tight delivery schedules required in this business. While federal regulations require pauses designed to avoid driver fatigue, some people drive beyond their endurance. A driver who is tired, of course, can not work all that well. Reaction times are slow, judgment is impaired, and this person is much more likely to fall asleep at the wheel. Fatigue is especially deadly when it involves an 18-wheeler.
3. Speeding
Speeding is one of the main causes of big rig accidents. After all, at high speeds, trucks are even less under control and have a longer stopping distance. Such reckless driving adds to the likelihood of accidents as well. Many California highways harbor pockets of congestion, which only serve to enrage drivers further and increase their hostility. Both truck drivers and other motorists must practice a little forbearance, not to mention obey the maximum limits, if they want to prevent accidents.
4. Loading Freight Improperly
Big rigs are often vessels for heavy and sometimes hazardous materials. If a load is not properly loaded or secured, it may shift as the journey is made, tipping the truck in one direction. This could cause rollovers, jackknifing, or cargo spillage on the road, all of which are strong hazards to other vehicles.
The fact that trucking companies are expected to ensure that cargo is loaded in accordance with all government regulations is a good thing. When these regulations are not met through negligence of loading technique and an accident occurs, then victims will have to turn to their big rig accident lawyers to seek compensation.
5. Mechanical Failures in Big Rigs
Four Big rigs, after all, are a special breed of truck and demand regular attention to keep them in good running order. Worn-out brakes, tire blowouts, and steering systems going wrong are the everyday mechanical failures of big rig trucks that typically bring accidents.
In some cases, these breakdowns are the result of either inadequate maintenance by trucking companies or products malfunctioning from manufacturers. With regular inspection and timely repair, accidents of this type can be avoided. If a crash can be attributed to mechanical failure, then not only does the trucking company itself carry this liability, but its suppliers have some share in future lawsuits as well.
Wrapping It Up!
Big rig accidents can be truly awful in California. Still, most are avoidable. By recognizing these dangers and taking positive steps to minimize them, truck drivers and other motorists work towards safer roads together.