Trucking Accidents - Whose Fault is It?

Truck accidents with passenger vehicles can occur due to errors or problems related to either driver. Many truck drivers blame the auto driver, while many auto drivers blame the truck driver. Each accident has its own unique combination of factors. Sometimes it's the fault of one or a combination of both. Knowledge and action on both sides can prevent accidents from happening in the first place. What problems cause accidents between large commercial trucks and passenger vehicles?

Many passenger vehicle drivers are not aware of how a commercial truck differs from their car. Large commercial trucks weigh many times more than the average family sedan. When they are carrying heavy loads, this weight begins to multiply. These large trucks need more time and space to accelerate and brake. They also have limited visibility on certain areas around their trucks. Drivers of passenger vehicles often do not consider these limitations when maneuvering around these large trucks. Many accidents occur when passenger vehicles drivers make stupid moves. These include changing lanes too close in front, trying to go around a turning truck, turning left in front of a truck, and pulling out in front of one from a side road. There are many other scenarios as well where an auto driver fails to consider a large truck's limitations.

Now, none of this puts drivers of large commercial vehicles in the innocent category. While most drivers are well trained professionals, the business model many drivers work with causes problems. Many companies pay independent haulers for the number of miles driven. The more miles they drive the more pay they receive. This puts drivers under pressure to drive faster and to work longer hours than most consider safe. Many companies apply heavy pressure with outrageous schedules and expectations. All of this puts drivers into dangerous situations constantly. Many enter the trucking field without the level of training needed for safety.

Maintenance delay of large commercial vehicles contributes to accident rates as well. Private haulers as well as large trucking companies try to save money by scrimping on basic maintenance. Skipping every other oil change or brake inspection saves cash for the short term. However, it contributes to higher accident rates. Regular maintenance cuts down on tire blowouts and brake failures. In the end, passenger vehicle drivers, truck drivers, and trucking companies all contribute in various ways to commercial vehicle accidents. Each one is unique to the combination of factors involved.