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Common causes of truck accidents

On Behalf of | Sep 6, 2019 | Motor Vehicle Accidents |

Trucks travel the New York roadways day and night. In and around the city, their presence can come with some undesired consequences.

A collision with a truck can have catastrophic consequences. At Brian J. Levy & Associates, P.C., our team of professionals wants you to understand the type of things that may lead to these sometimes fatal crashes. Understanding why these incidents are so dangerous may help you learn how to avoid them.

Sleep deprivation

Federal rules now regulate the number of hours truck operators can drive before taking a mandatory break. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration instituted the maximum hours to help put a stop to driver fatigue. However, this does not mean the driver does not still suffer from exhaustion. Sleep deprivation and exhaustion are still prevalent in the trucking industry.

Mechanical failure

The mechanical implements in a truck can fail just like in motor vehicles. However, when things go wrong inside a semi-truck, accidents can become fatal. Brake failure and tire blow-outs still occur. Frequent inspections by drivers and truck maintenance companies may assist in preventing these failures.

Load weight and security

Truckers haul vital products every day. Improper loading and packing, however, can spell trouble along the route. When a load is improperly secured, or the weight exceeds the capacity of the trailer, it can throw off a driver’s control of the truck. This lack of control makes actions like changing lanes, exiting or braking more cumbersome.

Accidents involving semi-trucks continue to occur despite safety features and avoidance technology. If you want more information on how these incidents may affect you, visit our website.

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