Statistics collected by those in charge of traffic safety in California have indicated the probable cause for most truck accidents. At the same time, such statistics have revealed the 6 most common reasons for truck accidents in California.
Ignoring FMCSA regulations
Far too many truck drivers choose to ignore the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Administration) regulations, concerning the number of hours each day that any one driver can be on the road. Those that ignore such regulations tend to become fatigued, and to make mistakes, while sitting at the truck’s steering wheel. Truck owners are supposed to arrange for installation of a logging device, so that the hours driven get recorded.
Speeding
When forced to meet a schedule, some drivers resort to speeding. A truck that is moving at a high rate of speed becomes difficult to control. When a driver struggles to control a truck, then that large vehicle become more likely to cause an accident.
Drivers using dangerous substances
No one that plans to sit behind a truck’s steering wheel should consume alcohol before assuming that particular position. By the same token, no truck driver should use any type of drug before setting out on a cross-country journey, carrying a heavy load, or on the way to pick up such a load.
Negligent hiring
The companies that hire drivers for their trucks should avoid the mistake of hiring unqualified applicants, in order to save money. For instance, some companies hire drivers that have a history of safety violations on their driving record. And that leads to an accident and related lawsuit later on as per injury lawyer in San Leandro & Pleasant Hill.
Allowing trucks with maintenance issues to travel on the road.
Trucking companies are expected to keep their vehicles well-maintained. That means that none of them should have poor-functioning brakes or faulty power steering. Naturally, all the other parts and systems should be in good working condition, as well.
Distracted driving
Any distracted motorist represents a hazard to other drivers. One that should be controlling a big rig or similar vehicle poses a special danger. Some distractions represent a driver’s effort to have a diversion from the monotonous job of watching the road. Those are things like using a cell phone or texting a message to another driver.
Other distractions become a part of the driver’s routine. For instance, it could be a driver’s job to locate the place where the items in the truck’s trailer must be unloaded. Well-trained drivers understand how to carry-out such a task safely.
It helps to call ahead and get directions. It also helps to obtain a map, so that the map’s directions can be compared to those on the GPS system. Of course, such a comparison ought to be made well in advance of the driver’s arrival at the intended destination.