Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Fort Worth

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While 18-wheelers and other commercial vehicles play a crucial role in our economy, they also pose significant risks to other road users. Understanding the common causes of truck accidents and how a Fort Worth truck accident lawyer can help is essential.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Fort Worth

Most often, truck accidents involve some form of negligence. This can include:

Distracted Driving

When truck drivers take their attention from the road, even for a few seconds, the consequences can be catastrophic. Common distractions include texting, eating, using GPS, and adjusting the radio. In Fort Worth, there have been numerous incidents where distracted driving led to severe accidents involving trucks. One notable case involved a truck driver who was texting while driving, causing a multi-vehicle collision on I-35W.

Driver Fatigue

Truck drivers often face grueling schedules, leading to fatigue that can impair their judgment and reaction times. Federal regulations mandate specific driving hours and rest periods to combat driver fatigue, but not all drivers adhere to these rules. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires drivers to take a 30-minute break after 8 hours of driving and limits them to 11 hours of driving within a 14-hour work period.

Fatigue-related accidents are alarmingly common. In Fort Worth, there was a tragic incident where a fatigued truck driver fell asleep at the wheel, causing a collision that claimed two lives. A Fort Worth truck accident lawyer is able to help victims get justice after accidents involving fatigued drivers.

Speeding and Reckless Driving

When truck drivers surpass speed limits or exhibit aggressive behaviors such as following too closely and abrupt lane changes, they put all road users at risk. Speeding reduces a driver's ability to react to sudden changes in traffic conditions, making it a leading cause of truck accidents.

In Fort Worth, speeding-related truck accidents are all too common. A Fort Worth truck accident lawyer will work with experts to prove the speed and reckless actions that led to the crash.

Poor Vehicle Maintenance

Regular maintenance is crucial for ensuring the safety of commercial vehicles. Neglecting maintenance can lead to mechanical failures, such as brake failure, tire blowouts, and steering issues. These problems can cause accidents that might have been preventable with proper upkeep.

Trucking companies have a responsibility to ensure their vehicles are in good condition. Unfortunately, some companies cut corners to save costs, jeopardizing the safety of their fleet.

Overloading and Improper Loading

Overloading and improper cargo loading can destabilize a truck, leading to rollovers and loss of control. Legally, trucks must adhere to specific weight limits and loading guidelines to ensure safe transportation of goods. However, some drivers and companies exceed these limits, putting everyone on the road at risk.

The shifting of cargo may take place during transit if it is not loaded correctly. This can cause the truck to become unstable. A Fort Worth truck accident lawyer will investigate to determine all of the loading violations that contributed to the crash.

Weather and Road Conditions

Adverse weather conditions, such as rain, fog, and ice, can significantly increase the hazards of driving, particularly for large trucks due to their size and weight. When combined with poor road conditions like construction zones and potholes, the risks are further heightened, necessitating even more caution on the road. Truck drivers must constantly adapt their driving techniques to navigate through these challenges safely.

In Fort Worth, Texas, the weather varies widely, ranging from heavy rainstorms that reduce visibility to dense fog that creates additional driving difficulties.

Inadequate Training and Supervision

Proper training is essential for truck drivers to handle the complexities of operating large vehicles safely. Inadequate training and supervision can lead to accidents due to a lack of defensive driving techniques and unfamiliarity with safety protocols. Trucking companies play a crucial role in providing comprehensive training programs and ongoing supervision.

Mechanical Failures

Mechanical failures, such as engine problems and transmission issues, can lead to sudden breakdowns and accidents. Regular maintenance and timely repairs are essential to prevent these failures.

In Fort Worth, mechanical failures have been responsible for several accidents. For example, a truck with a faulty engine broke down on I-35W, causing a chain-reaction crash. This incident highlighted the importance of addressing mechanical issues promptly.

Know Your Legal Options

If you are hurt in a truck accident, a qualified truck accident attorney in Fort Worth can help you protect your rights and navigate the complexities of your case. A Fort Worth commercial vehicle accident lawyer understands the laws surrounding truck accidents, can gather crucial evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and advocate for the compensation you deserve for the resulting damages. Having an experienced Fort Worth truck accident lawyer by your side ensures that you have the support you need during this challenging time.

Contact a Truck Accident Attorney Based in Fort Worth

Understanding the common causes of truck accidents in Fort Worth is crucial for both truck drivers and other road users. By staying informed and taking preventive measures, we can reduce the risk of accidents and ensure safer roads for everyone.

If you were hurt in a truck accident in Texas, seeking legal assistance is essential. Contact a Fort Worth truck accident lawyer today to learn your legal options.