Most people get nervous when driving around large trucks on Mississippi’s roads and highways, for good reason. In an accident involving a truck, the driver of the passenger vehicle will likely be the one to suffer serious or fatal injuries.
Although there is plenty of information available on the dangers of large trucks, recent statistics show that the number of fatal truck accidents has increased over the past 10 years.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the National Safety Council, data from 2021 to 2022 shows that large trucks involved in deadly accidents increased by 49% over the past decade.
Common reasons for truck accidents
There are many potential reasons for this unfortunate increase in numbers. Distracted driving continues to be a problem among all drivers, including truckers.
Distracted driving is defined as any activity that takes a driver’s attention away from the primary task of driving. Using a phone, eating, drinking and using a navigation system are common examples of distracted driving.
Because truck drivers are on the road for many hours at a time, they can be more susceptible to engaging in distracted driving. The long hours also result in fatigue, which can increase the chance of distracted driving.
Although truck drivers are required to take rest and meal breaks, they may ignore these rules, particularly if they are behind schedule. Truck drivers must adhere to strict deadlines and cutting corners when running late could happen.
Some truck accidents are caused by poor cargo loading. This can cause the cargo to fall out of the truck or even result in a truck tipping over while driving on a highway. Loading the cargo can be the responsibility of the truck driver or the trucking company.
Bad weather and road conditions
There are other causes of truck accidents that are not the fault of the truck driver or trucking company. Bad weather conditions such as heavy rain or fog can make driving difficult and icy conditions increase the chance of a major accident.
Although bad weather conditions might be an act of nature, sometimes the conditions are attributable to negligence, such as taking too long to salt icy roads.
Poor road conditions and construction work causes truck accidents. Failing to put up sufficient and clear signs confuses drivers, leading to trucks driving in the wrong lane or recklessly trying to figure out where they are supposed to be driving.
You have rights and options when you are involved in an accident with a truck. You may be left with severe or permanent injuries and physical and emotional scaring. Many truck accident victims are so traumatized they are afraid to drive again. This can severely disrupt your life if you rely on your vehicle to commute to work, transport children or run errands.
Holding negligent truck drivers responsible through a personal injury action means potentially recovering compensation for these and other damages. Proving negligence is challenging, and the truck driver might claim you were negligent, as well. Knowing how to build a strong case and defend your own driving is necessary.