Causes of Semi Truck Accidents

Semi trucks – the big, 18-wheeled tractor trailers we see on the Sam Houston Tollway, I-10, I-45 and other roads in and around Houston every day – present numerous unique risks in the event of an accident. In fact, semi trucks are among the most dangerous vehicles on the roads, and a greater proportion of semi truck accidents result in death than any other type of vehicle collision. In non-fatal accidents, crash victims often suffer serious, debilitating and in many cases life-changing injuries.

As the victim of a semi truck accident or the family member of someone who lost their life in a collision with a semi truck, you could be entitled to substantial compensation for you or your loved one’s medical bills, pain and suffering, and other losses. The following are all common causes of semi truck accidents that can entitle victims and their families to financial recoveries:

Grounds to Seek Compensation After a Semi Truck Accident

1. Truck Driver Error

Truck driver error is among the most common causes of semi truck accidents. Like all drivers, truck drivers (or, more commonly, their insurance companies) can be held financially liable for injuries, death and property damage resulting from their negligence behind the wheel. The difference is that, due to the size, weight and limited maneuverability of semi trucks, truck drivers’ mistakes are often much more costly than other driver’ errors. Some examples of mistakes that can lead to claims for compensation include:

• Speeding (either exceeding the posted limit or driving too fast for the road and weather conditions)
• Fatigue and falling asleep behind the wheel
• Distracted driving, including talking, texting and watching videos on Smartphones
• Drug and alcohol use
• Driving errors, such as turning suddenly or merging into approaching passenger vehicles

2. Tire Blowouts

Tire blowouts can cause semi truck drivers to lose control, and are a common factor in jackknife, rollover and other types of serious accidents. Trucking companies and owner-operators must be sure to maintain their trucks in roadworthy condition, and this includes ensuring that their tires aren’t at risk for blowouts.

3. Other Equipment Failures

Along with tires, trucking companies and owner-operators must adequately maintain all other equipment on their vehicles as well. This includes:

• Brakes
• Engines
• Transmissions
• Lights
• Equipment for securing cargo

4. Cargo Issues

Trucking companies and shipping companies must be careful to ensure that they are not overloading or improperly loading semi trucks’ cargo. Carrying too much weight, carrying imbalanced loads and carrying cargo that has not been properly secured are all issues that can lead to serious accidents.

More Common Causes of Semi Truck Accidents

These are just some of the most common examples. For more information about causes of semi truck accidents that can lead to claims for compensation, read our article: Common Hazards Presented by Semi Trucks and Tractor Trailers.

Speak with a Houston Truck Accident Lawyer at Morrow & Sheppard LLP

If you have been injured in a semi truck accident, it can be difficult to know where to turn. At Morrow & Sheppard LLP, we will provide you with a thorough case evaluation; and, if you are entitled to compensation, we will fight vigorously to win the compensation you deserve. To speak with a lawyer about your accident, request a free consultation online or call (800) 489-2216 today.