Truck accidents are some of the most dangerous crashes on the road. Because of their huge size and weight, trucks can cause serious damage in a collision. People involved in these accidents often suffer severe injuries, or worse. That’s why learning about the causes of truck accidents is so important. The more you understand, the better you can protect yourself and your loved ones.
At William W. Price P.A., we’ve worked with many clients who’ve been affected by these types of crashes. Based in South Florida, our firm helps people in Boca, West Palm Beach, Boynton Beach, and Jupiter get the legal support they need after a serious truck accident. We focus on delivering old-fashioned personal service, with direct access to your attorney from day one.
In this post, we’ll walk you through the 10 most common causes of truck accidents, what they are, why they happen, and what you should know.
Driver Fatigue
Truck drivers often work long hours. Even though there are laws about how long they can drive without a break, some drivers still push themselves too hard. Whether it’s pressure from employers or just trying to meet deadlines, tired drivers are a big risk on the road.
Fatigue slows down reaction time and affects decision-making. It’s one of the top causes of truck accidents and can be just as dangerous as drunk driving.
Speeding and Aggressive Driving
Big trucks need more time to slow down and stop. When a truck driver is speeding or driving aggressively, like tailgating or cutting people off, it makes a crash much more likely.
Speed is a major factor in many truck accidents, especially on highways where everyone is going fast.
Distracted Driving
Like all drivers, truckers can get distracted. Whether it’s checking a GPS, using a phone, eating, or even daydreaming, distractions take focus off the road.
Since trucks are harder to control, even a few seconds of distraction can lead to a serious crash. This has become one of the most common causes of truck accidents in recent years.
Poor Truck Maintenance
Trucks must be checked and maintained regularly. When companies skip inspections or delay repairs, it puts everyone at risk. Bad brakes, worn-out tires, broken lights, or steering problems can easily cause an accident, especially at high speeds or in bad weather.
Both the driver and the trucking company can be held responsible if poor maintenance leads to a crash.
Bad Weather and Road Conditions
Rain, fog, high winds, or slippery roads can make truck driving more dangerous. A skilled driver should slow down and take extra care in these conditions. Unfortunately, not all drivers do.
Rough roads, potholes, and construction zones can also cause problems, especially for trucks that are overloaded or unbalanced.
Overloaded or Poorly Loaded Cargo
Trucks carry thousands of pounds of cargo, and it needs to be loaded the right way. If the load is too heavy or shifts around while driving, it can cause the truck to tip over or jackknife.
Cargo that isn’t secured properly can also fall onto the road, putting other drivers in danger. These crashes are preventable with the right training and procedures.
Inexperienced or Poorly Trained Drivers
Driving a big rig isn’t like driving a regular car. It takes special training, skill, and practice. When companies hire inexperienced drivers or skip important training steps, it puts everyone at risk.
New drivers may not know how to react in emergencies or handle tough road conditions. That inexperience can lead to serious mistakes.
Driving Under the Influence
Sadly, some truck drivers get behind the wheel while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Even prescription meds or over-the-counter drugs can affect focus and reaction time.
Driving under the influence is always dangerous, but when it involves a commercial truck, the results can be catastrophic.
Mechanical Failures
Sometimes, trucks fail because of mechanical issues. A faulty brake system, steering failure, or tire defect can cause a crash, even if the driver is doing everything right.
In these cases, the blame might fall on the truck manufacturer, the company that last serviced the vehicle, or someone else responsible for the equipment.
Unsafe Lane Changes and Blind Spots
Trucks have large blind spots, on the sides, in the back, and even in front. When drivers don’t check those areas before changing lanes or merging, they can easily hit another vehicle.
These types of accidents often happen on busy highways and can cause chain-reaction crashes involving multiple cars.
Why It Matters
When it comes to truck accidents, there’s often more going on than just a driver making a mistake. Yes, driver error is a big part of it, but it’s not the only cause. Sometimes the real problem is something behind the scenes, like a trucking company cutting corners, a mechanic who skipped a safety check, or even a manufacturer that sold faulty parts.
That’s why understanding the causes of truck accidents is so important. These crashes aren’t always simple, and the truth isn’t always obvious right away. In many cases, multiple people or companies might be responsible. Figuring out who’s at fault takes time, experience, and careful investigation.
At William W. Price P.A., we don’t treat your case like just another file on the desk. When you work with us, you get direct access to a real attorney, not a paralegal or assistant. We take the time to dig into every detail, from maintenance records and driver logs to inspection reports and crash data. We know that truck accident claims can be complicated, and we’re ready to go the extra mile to help you understand your options and fight for what you deserve.
With decades of legal experience and a board-certified civil trial lawyer leading the way, our team is equipped to handle even the toughest cases. We’ve helped clients across Boca, West Palm Beach, Boynton Beach, and Jupiter get answers, support, and results. If you’ve been hurt in a truck accident and don’t know where to turn, we’re here to help, every step of the way.
What to Do After a Truck Accident
If you’ve been hurt in a truck accident, here’s what to do right away:
Get Medical Help
Get medical help, even if you think you think you’re okay.
Call the Police
Call the police and ask for a copy of the accident report.
Take Pictures
Take pictures of the scene and the damage if you can.
Get Contact Information
Get contact info from witnesses and the truck driver.
Don’t Speak to Insurance Companies
Don’t speak to insurance companies before calling a lawyer.
Truck accident cases are complex. We’re here to help guide you through it.
Knowing the Causes of Truck Accidents Can Help You Stay Safe
There are many causes of truck accidents, and most of them are preventable. Whether it’s driver fatigue, speeding, bad weather, or poor training, these crashes can be life-changing.
By learning about the common causes of truck accidents, you’re taking the first step toward protecting yourself on the road. And if you’re ever involved in a crash, don’t try to handle it alone.
Contact William W. Price P.A. for trusted legal help. We’ll give your case the attention it deserves, because your recovery is our priority.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common causes of truck accidents?
Truck accidents can happen for a number of reasons. Some of the most common causes include driver fatigue (when a trucker is too tired to drive safely), speeding, and distracted driving, like using a phone, eating, or messing with a GPS. Bad weather and road conditions can also play a role. Other causes include poor truck maintenance and overloaded or improperly secured cargo. Each of these issues can turn a normal trip into a serious crash.
Who can be held responsible for a truck accident?
Responsibility doesn’t always fall on just the driver. In many cases, the trucking company could be held liable, especially if they didn’t follow safety rules or pushed the driver to meet unrealistic deadlines. If the truck had a faulty part, the manufacturer may be to blame. If the truck was poorly loaded or maintained, the crew or company responsible for those tasks could also be held accountable. Sometimes, multiple parties share responsibility. Learning about truck accident liability can help you understand who might be at fault in your case.
What should I do right after a truck accident?
First, make sure you’re safe and call 911. Even if you don’t feel hurt, get checked out by a medical professional, some injuries show up later. If you can, take pictures of the accident scene, damage to the vehicles, and any road signs or conditions that might have played a role. Also, try to get contact info from witnesses. Then, call an attorney before you talk to any insurance companies. They may try to get you to say something that could hurt your case.
How long do I have to file a claim in Florida?
In Florida, you usually have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. This may seem like plenty of time, but it’s important to act quickly. The sooner you speak with a lawyer, the easier it is to gather evidence, get witness statements, and protect your rights. Waiting too long can make it harder to build a strong case.
Can I still get compensation if I was partly at fault?
Yes. Florida follows what’s called a modified comparative fault rule. This means that as long as you were less than 50% responsible for the crash, you can still receive compensation. However, the amount you get may be reduced based on how much the accident was your fault. For example, if you were found 20% at fault, your compensation would be reduced by 20%.
What kind of damages can I recover after a truck accident?
If you were injured in a truck accident, you may be able to recover several types of damages. These can include medical bills (for things like hospital visits, surgery, or rehab), lost wages if you had to miss work, and vehicle repair or replacement costs. You may also be eligible for pain and suffering, which covers the physical and emotional stress caused by the accident. In some cases, you might even be awarded damages for future medical needs or lost earning potential.
Are truck accidents handled differently than regular car accidents?
Yes, they are. Truck accidents are more complicated because they involve more rules and more people. For example, truck drivers and companies must follow strict federal regulations about how long drivers can be on the road, how trucks are maintained, and how cargo is handled. Investigating these cases often takes more time and resources. That’s why it’s important to work with an attorney who understands the difference and knows what to look for.
What if the truck driver broke safety rules?
If the driver ignored safety rules, like driving too long without a break, speeding, or using a phone while driving, that could be strong evidence of negligence. Your attorney can help gather records, such as the driver’s logbooks, black box data, or delivery schedules, to prove that the driver (or their company) wasn’t following the law. This kind of evidence can make a big difference in the outcome of your case.
Should I talk to the trucking company’s insurance?
No, it’s best not to. Insurance companies, even when they seem polite or helpful, are usually looking for ways to pay as little as possible. They might record your conversation and use your words against you later. That’s why it’s so important to talk to a lawyer first. Your attorney can speak on your behalf and make sure your rights are protected from the start.
Do I really need a lawyer for a truck accident case?
Yes, you do. Truck accident cases aren’t like fender benders, they’re complex and often involve big companies with aggressive insurance teams. A lawyer who knows how to handle these cases can help gather the right evidence, deal with insurance adjusters, and fight to get you the full compensation you deserve. At William W. Price P.A., we’re here to guide you through the entire process with personal attention and decades of experience.
