Trucks are the most dangerous vehicles on the road due to their size and weight. While truck accidents do not occur as often as other motor vehicle accidents, they can be far more severe. As a result, it is important to know how these accidents occur and what to do in the event of an injury. Read on to learn more about truck accidents in Maryland.
What Are the Most Common Types of Truck Accidents?
There are a number of different types of accidents. Some of the most common accidents include:
- Rollover accidents: Wind can cause a driver to lose control of the vehicle and roll over on its side.
- Underride accidents: Truck drivers who step on the brakes after being hit by wind can cause a closely following vehicle to crash and slide underneath the truck.
- Jackknife accidents: When a driver hits the brakes too hard, the truck can fold in on itself and form a 90-degree angle.
- Lost load accidents: Improperly loaded cargo can come loose and fall out of the truck onto the road.
Why Do Truck Accidents Occur?
Truck accidents can occur for any number of reasons. That being said, the majority of truck accidents can be traced back to driver negligence. The most common forms of truck driver negligence include:
- Violating safety regulations: If a truck driver violates the rules of the road, they may cause an accident. This includes changing lanes improperly, passing other vehicles unsafely, or following too closely behind other vehicles.
- Reckless driving: If a driver is speeding, it can be difficult for them to control the vehicle and bring it to a stop in time. The average truck requires a length of about two football fields to complete a stop. If trucks are reckless on the road, it can be difficult to maneuver the vehicle.
- Poor visibility: Because of their size, trucks have a restricted view of the road. They have large blind spots that can trap other small vehicles and cause accidents.
- Drowsy driving: Federal law allows truck drivers 11 hours on the road within a 14-hour workday, giving them a maximum of 70 hours a week. If they drive any longer than this, they are breaking the law and can cause an accident due to drowsy driving.
- Mechanical problems: This may include tire blowouts, brake issues, breakdowns, and more. All of these issues can cause an accident.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident in Maryland, contact our firm today to speak with a dedicated personal injury attorney.
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If you or a family member have been injured in a car accident, contact Lloyd J. Eisenberg & Associates today.
