While it might not be uncommon for drivers to share the road with commercial vehicles nearly every day, such an endeavor can still prove intimidating at times. Due to the increases in size and weight in the average tractor-trailer, other vehicles may stand little chance of holding their own should a collision take place. While knowing some of the most prevalent causes of truck accidents may help drivers in Kentucky understand what to watch for on the open road, it might not always be possible to detect a potential hazard in time to prevent the unthinkable.
Truck accidents can occur under a variety of circumstances and the outcome of such incidents may run the unfortunate risk of placing the lives of everyone nearby in jeopardy. Some of the most prevalent causes of truck accidents may include:
- Reckless behavior: Truck drivers who exhibit reckless behaviors such as excessive speeding and failure to check blind spots may run a greater risk of creating a dangerous situation.
- Unfamiliar routes: Studies suggest that truck drivers who navigate through unfamiliar areas could be more prone to succumbing to distraction or attempting dangerous maneuvers.
- Driver fatigue: Demanding schedules and long hours on the road are just two examples of issues that could lead to truck driver fatigue and even a momentary bout with drowsiness could carry dire repercussions.
Tractor-trailers may also require frequent maintenance to ensure all parts remain in proper working condition and failure to perform such tasks could also increase the risks of an unfortunate scenario.
Truck accidents continue to occur at an alarming rate and such incidents have affected the lives of many families. Individuals in Kentucky who suffer serious injuries or an unexpected loss in such an accident may wish to exercise their rights to seek accountability through the civil justice system, but they might not know how best to approach the process. When facing a similar situation, a person could consider retaining the services of an attorney for guidance in preparing to pursue the full amount of restitution deserved through a claim against all parties deemed responsible.
