Trucks are an essential mode of transport for various reasons. Not only do they provide employment to a large number of people, trucks have an important role to play in the value chain of various systems in the country. However, a driver needs to have sharp skills to be a good truck driver.
That being said, it is one of the most dangerous jobs in America. The numbers also validate this concern wherein, in 2019, 5,005 people were killed and an estimated 159,000 people were injured in crashes involving large trucks. An estimated 538,000 large trucks were involved in traffic crashes.
But what makes truck driving such a risk and dangerous profession. Let us understand this in detail.
- Long hours: Truck driving is often associated with long work hours as well as the majority of distances are covered at night. Hence, there are chances of fatigue that make truck driving risky for the driver as well as other people on the road.
- Road-related issues: In many instances, ongoing construction work or poor condition of the road make truck drivers vulnerable to accidents. Moreover, the risk of injury is very high as trucks are large vehicles and the impact of an accident is also high.
- Distracted/Rash driving: Truck drives often work on tight timelines that may compel them to drive fast as well as keep them distracted due to stress. This can become a cause of an accident and lead to severe injuries.
In addition to the above reasons, the lack of skill of the driver as well as other factors may contribute to increased vulnerability to an accident.
It is important to note that an accident involving a truck may occur due to the truck driver’s fault or the fault of another motor vehicle on the road. An accident could also be a result of a faulty truck that is not duly maintained. Regardless of the reason for the accident, a truck accident can cause severe injuries due to its large size and high-impact outcome in an accident. Hence, a truck accident is also associated with higher fatalities as compared to accidents involving other motor vehicles such as cars and motorcycles.
If the accident is a result of another driver or vice versa, the truck driver should immediately inform the truck owner and seek medical advice. It is advisable to work with an auto accident attorney or a truck accident lawyer. They will be able to advise the best way forward depending on the details of the accident and work towards compensation that is fair to the victim and covers all damages including medical expenses, loss of income, pain & suffering, etc.
If you or someone you know has been injured in a car accident due to someone’s negligence, you need the best truck accident lawyer, contact Siler & Ingber today. Call us on 1-877-529-4343 or complete our online form on this page to schedule a case evaluation with one of our experienced truck accident lawyers. Our consultation is free and we do not charge a fee unless we win your case.