Tractor trailer accidents are some of the most devastating and destructive auto accidents, due in large part to their immense size and weight. When these crashes occur, victims may suffer injuries which can have a severe and life-altering impact. If you’ve been hurt in a truck crash, call our Marietta tractor trailer lawyers at Jones & Swanson today.
Failing To Check Their Surroundings
Another major cause of Marietta truck accidents is when the driver does not properly check their surroundings. Many accidents are caused by a truck driver merging into another vehicle on the freeway, while others are due to a failure to check sidewalks and crosswalks before making a turn.
Distracted Driving
Drivers of commercial vehicles are prohibited from texting while driving by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. However, they define “texting” as any action on the phone that is not making or receiving a phone call, and even those actions are restricted to just one button press.
However, the long hours behind the wheel can take their toll on a truck driver, and many will try to stave off boredom by using a computer, radio, TV, or other electronic devices. Unfortunately, this can take their attention off the wheel which can result in a serious tractor trailer accident.
Overtired Drivers
Driver fatigue is a serious issue, to the point that the amount of time you can spend behind the wheel is actually federally regulated. Tired drivers tend to have slower reaction times, and their judgement is typically impaired. When you’re behind the wheel of an 80,000 lb. tractor trailer, even a slight lapse in judgement can have catastrophic results.
Drug/alcohol Use
One of the leading causes of trucking accidents is drug or alcohol use behind the wheel. Drugs can severely impair your judgement and your reaction time, both of which are critical when driving a truck. The danger of this activity is well-known, as the penalties for commercial DUI are significantly stiffer than for an average driver.
Hurt In A Crash? Call (770) 427-5498 Today.
If you’ve suffered serious injuries as a result of a truck driver’s negligence, call our skilled Marietta tractor trailer accident attorneys to pursue fair compensation. With more than six decades of collective experience under our belts, our team has successfully recovered more than $50 million on behalf of our clients.
Our dedicated advocates can help you get maximum compensation for your injuries. Call today for your free initial consultation.
