Trucking accidents are a significant concern on Atlanta roads, mainly because of the state’s extensive highway system and the many commercial vehicles that transverse it daily.
Many of these tragic accidents lead to severe injuries and can be life-altering for the victims and their families. Understanding the factors contributing to these accidents can empower individuals to recognize hazards, avoid dangerous situations, and understand their rights in seeking compensation.
Driver fatigue
One of the leading causes of trucking accidents is driver fatigue. Even though federal regulations dictate the number of hours a driver can be on the road, companies often put profits over people and reward them for violating these rules by offering overtime pay and other perks.
What can fatigue lead to?
It is essential to understand that fatigue is beyond feeling sleepy; therefore, it rarely goes away by drinking a cup of coffee. The human body can only do so much, work under so much pressure and for so many hours before it reaches its limit. Fatigue impairs judgment and slows reaction times.
Distracted driving
Distracted driving is a factor that is becoming increasingly common in truck accidents and car accidents. Common distractions include smartphones, adjusting in-cabin technology, and even eating while driving.
These distractions might seem harmless; after all, one might think that taking one’s eyes off the road for a second will not put one’s life at risk. However, studies show that this is not the case. Any distraction is enough to cause an accident.
Truck weight and loading requirements
In the trucking business, regulations dictate the maximum weight of a truck and other loading requirements. However, deviations from these regulations happen constantly, and the driver might not even know it.
For instance, if the person who loads the truck differs from the person driving the truck, the driver will know the car is at risk of becoming unstable, which could lead to losing control of the vehicle.
Vehicle maintenance
While trucking companies maintain their vehicles, the older trucks you see on the road often have not undergone inspection for a long time. Regular maintenance of trucks is imperative because of the risk these vehicles can cause.
Speeding and reckless driving
Many drivers feel compelled (or even obligated) to drive faster to meet delivery deadlines. While this behavior is typical, it significantly increases the likelihood of accidents. Understanding speed regulations and drivers’ abilities are key considerations here.
Other factors, such as weather, exist, but these are the most prominent and perhaps the ones many drivers do not consider before getting behind the wheel.
If you are involved in an accident or know someone who is, it is crucial to consult with an Atlanta personal injury attorney knowledgeable in trucking regulations and accident cases. Consulting with an Atlanta personal injury attorney knowledgeable in trucking regulations and accident cases will protect your rights and ensure that the negligent parties are held accountable.