Causes of Tractor Trailer Accidents

Trucking companies may pressure their drivers to violate hours-of-service rules so that they deliver their loads on time. 

It is estimated that there are 3.5 million truckers on the road nationwide. Truck accidents account for 9% of all roadway accidents in the U.S. Because of their size and weight, tractor trailers can be a deadly weapon. This is why the commercial trucking industry is so highly regulated. When a car or other passenger vehicle is involved in a collision with one of these 80,000 pound trucks, it is typically the motorist who sustains the most serious injuries.

With so many crowded interstates in Missouri and Illinois, serious and fatal accidents resulting from the action or inaction of a careless truck driver or negligent trucking company are inevitable.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents:

• Driver under influence of drugs or alcohol

• Speeding

• Driver fatigue

• Poor truck maintenance

• Aggressive driving

• Texting while driving

• Cell phone use while driving

• Poor training

It is not always the truck driver that is at fault. Trucking companies may pressure their drivers to violate hours-of-service rules so that they deliver their loads on time. Trucking companies may also delay truck maintenance or hire unqualified workers.

St. Louis Truck Accident Lawyers

The Zevan and Davidson Law Firm is a trial law firm with a track record of obtaining results in high-stakes catastrophic personal injury cases in Missouri and Illinois. If you or a loved one have been the victim of a truck accident in Missouri or Illinois, contact the St. Louis truck accident lawyers at Zevan & Davidson today to schedule a free consultation by calling (314) 588-7200.

photo credit: -= Bruce Berrien -=