What are Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Alpharetta?

Driver error, a failure to respond to environmental factors and traffic conditions, and vehicle issues are common causes of truck accidents in Alpharetta.

Our Alpharetta truck accident lawyers can help you regardless of how your accident happened.

Driver Error

Truck driver negligence causes a large percentage of truck accidents. 

Fatigue and Overworking

Fatigue is a critical factor in truck accidents, often stemming from long hours of nonstop driving. Many truck drivers are under pressure to meet tight delivery schedules, pushing them to work beyond their physical limits and violate Hours of Service laws.

This overworking leads to decreased alertness and reaction time, significantly increasing the risk of accidents. For individuals injured by truck drivers, understanding that fatigue might have played a role is crucial for addressing the root cause of the accident and seeking justice.

Distraction and Inattention

Distracted driving is another major cause of truck accidents. Activities such as using a mobile phone, eating, or even adjusting the radio can divert a driver’s attention from the road.

In the few seconds a driver’s eyes are off the road, a commercial vehicle can travel a considerable distance, enough to cause a catastrophic accident. For victims, pinpointing inattention as a cause can be key in legal proceedings, highlighting the negligence involved.

Impairment Due to Alcohol or Drugs

Although strict regulations exist regarding operating a commercial vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs, such incidents still occur and lead to serious accidents. Impairment affects a driver’s judgment, coordination, and reaction times, endangering not only the driver but also other road users. Drug or alcohol test results can help prove the driver was operating their vehicle with a blood alcohol content above 0.04 (the legal limit for truck drivers).

Inexperienced or Improperly Trained Drivers

Truck driving requires specialized skills and training. However, sometimes, inexperienced or inadequately trained drivers get behind the wheel without the necessary expertise to navigate complex traffic situations or adverse weather conditions safely. This lack of experience can lead to errors in judgment and cause a devastating accident.

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Truck Accidents FAQs

Environmental Factors

Weather, road conditions, and poor lighting can all contribute to an accident.

Adverse Weather Conditions (Rain, Snow, Fog)

Adverse weather conditions such as rain, snow, and fog significantly increase the risk of truck accidents. These conditions can impair visibility and make roads slippery, challenging even the most experienced drivers.

Trucks, due to their size and weight, require more time and distance to stop, and slippery roads can lead to longer stopping distances and potential loss of control.

Poor Road Conditions and Construction Zones

Poor road conditions, including potholes, uneven surfaces, and temporary construction zones, can be particularly hazardous for trucks. These conditions often require sudden maneuvers or speed adjustments, which can lead to accidents if not handled correctly.

Inadequate Signage or Road Lighting

Inadequate signage and poor road lighting are significant factors in many truck accidents. Lack of clear signage can lead to confusion about road layouts or upcoming hazards, while insufficient lighting at night or during bad weather can severely reduce visibility.

While these conditions can contribute to an accident, it’s important to note that truck drivers have an obligation to prepare themselves for these potential issues. For example, they should drive slower in adverse weather conditions and through construction sites.

Traffic Conditions

Bad traffic conditions can also contribute to an accident.

• Congestion and High Traffic Volumes: Dense traffic increases the chance of collisions, as trucks have less room to maneuver and longer stopping distances than smaller vehicles.
• Aggressive Driving Behavior Around Trucks: Some drivers may exhibit aggressive behavior, such as cutting off trucks or tailgating, which can escalate the risk of accidents due to trucks’ limited visibility and maneuverability.
• Improper Lane Changes and Blind Spots: Trucks have significant blind spots, and improper lane changes can lead to deadly collisions for vehicles in the truck’s blind spots.

Truck drivers bear the responsibility of adapting to traffic conditions to mitigate these risks. This includes maintaining a safe following distance, being vigilant of their surroundings, and executing maneuvers with greater caution. The ability to anticipate and respond to the challenges presented by traffic congestion, aggressive drivers, and lane-changing scenarios is crucial for preventing accidents and ensuring road safety for all users.

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Maintenance Issues, Loading Issues, or Defects

Vehicle-related issues play a significant role in truck accidents. These issues can stem from various factors, including inadequate vehicle upkeep and mechanical problems.

Some vehicle issues that could cause or contribute to a crash include:

• Poor Vehicle Maintenance and Mechanical Failures: Regular maintenance is critical for the safety of commercial trucks. Neglecting this can lead to mechanical failures, such as brake failure or steering issues. Maintenance records can serve as vital evidence in legal claims.
• Tire Blowouts: Tires are the foundation of any vehicle’s safety, especially for heavy trucks. Poorly maintained or overused tires can lead to blowouts, causing drivers to lose control. In some cases, a defect within the tire could have caused the blowout. Our team can help you determine whether the truck’s owner, a maintenance company, or a manufacturer may be liable for your injuries.
• Load-Related Problems (Overloading, Unsecured Loads): Proper load distribution and securement are essential for safe truck operation. Overloaded or poorly secured loads can shift weight unexpectedly, leading to loss of control or rollovers. For victims, identifying load-related issues can point to negligence in adhering to safety standards.

A truck accident lawyer can help you prove that poor maintenance, defects, or improperly loaded cargo caused your accident.

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We Can Help If You Were Injured in a Truck Accident

Our personal injury attorneys can help you fight for compensation if you were seriously injured in an Alpharetta truck accident. We will identify and hold all responsible parties liable. This may include the truck driver, trucking company, maintenance company, cargo loader, or manufacturer.

Call to see what the Bader Scott Injury Lawyers team can do for you today.

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