Large commercial trucks - including eighteen wheelers and tractor trailers - present a unique danger to other drivers on the road. Because of their size, trucks are more difficult to maneuver and require more room to stop than passenger vehicles. Even worse, because of the sheer size and weight of commercial trucks, drivers have little room for error: when a truck hits a passenger vehicle, the results are often catastrophic.

According to statistics from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), 3,215 trucks were involved in fatal truck accidents in 2009, the last year for which statistics are available. While this marks a drop from previous years, commercial trucks still present a serious danger to drivers in New York and across the country.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents

A variety of factors can contribute to the occurrence of truck accidents, but the behavior of the truck driver is often times key. Truck drivers can cause crashes by:

  • Ignoring posted speed limits
  • Driving recklessly or texting while driving
  • Driving while fatigued

Driver inexperience can also play a role in causing serious accidents, as can policies implemented by trucking companies. For example, a company may put pressure on its drivers to meet difficult or impossible delivery deadlines, which leads drivers to speed or get behind the wheel while severely fatigued. Companies may also attempt to cut costs by delaying required maintenance on their vehicles, making the failure of brakes, tires and other critical vehicle systems more likely.

An Experienced Personal Injury Attorney Can Help

If you or someone you love has been injured in an accident with a large commercial truck, contact an experienced personal injury attorney. A personal injury lawyer can assess your case and help you get the compensation for your injuries you deserve. For more information, contact an attorney today.