Semitrucks operators provide the valuable service of hauling goods all across the country. But, that service isn’t without risks. These very large and heavy vehicles can easily crush passenger vehicles when they’re involved in a crash.
For those struck by a semitruck, determining the cause of the wreck becomes important because victims are often in a strong position to seek compensation for the financial damages caused by a crash. Understanding some of the more common causes of semitruck wrecks may be beneficial as a result.
Improperly secured cargo
All cargo must be properly secured, or it can come loose from the semitruck and become a hazard to other drivers on the roadways. It may also shift and cause the trucker to lose control, and a crash is possible if either of those scenarios occurs.
Trucker error
Truckers are expected to drive safely through all conditions they encounter, including heavy traffic and unfamiliar roads. Serious crashes can occur when they don’t. A trucker who’s fatigued, impaired, distracted or aggressive may cause a crash.
Trucking company policies
The policies of a trucking company can have a primary role in how the trucker operates the vehicle. Deadlines that are too tight or completely inflexible may encourage truckers to drive too fast, skirt around the hours of service regulations or take unsafe measures on the road.
Being struck by a semitruck can result in catastrophic injuries, leading to substantial medical expenses. Coupled with a potential loss of income due to one’s injury, the financial impact can be overwhelming. In such cases, seeking compensation from at-fault parties can potentially help to mitigate the financial damages caused by the harm in question.
