Why Are Commercial Truck Accidents Dangerous

Commercial truck accidents are a serious menace on our roads leading to serious injuries and damages. It is essential to note the risks brought by these accidents for drivers, pedestrians and all other users of the road. At the same time, understanding how beneficial a skilled attorney can be for any victim of such accidents also equally matters. 

6 Key Reasons for Commercial Truck Accidents:

1. Size and Weight Disparity 

The most disturbing factor when it comes to truck accidents is the huge difference between passenger cars and commercial trucks. A fully loaded commercial truck weighs close to 80,000 pounds, whereas the standard passenger car’s weight is usually around 3000-4000 pounds. Such a weight difference implies that in a crash, the truck is likely to cause extensive damage to the other cars and their passengers. Traumatic injuries are common to vehicle occupants, especially when involving a commercial vehicle. 

2. Increased Stopping Distance 

Compared to other motor vehicles, commercial trucks take a longer distance before they can reach a complete standstill. If a loaded truck is riding at 65 miles per hour, that truck will take approximately 500 feet to stop, while the average car will require around 300 feet. Whenever distance is required for the vehicles to come to a stop, it can bring about severe cases of rear-end collisions, particularly in situations where an emergency stop has to be done. 

3. Driver Fatigue: 

Over the long haul, a driver out on the road might suffer driver’s fatigue, which is still critical in the trucking industry. Drivers are normally under tight schedules, which may push them to commit more hours than they should without the necessary break. A fatigued driver risks experiencing reduced levels of alertness, longer response times, and reduced decision-making that may conversationally refer themselves back to sleeping, flashing the chances of spoiling an accident. In certain specific cases, drowsy driving may even be more dangerous than driving while intoxicated. 

A Philadelphia truck accident lawyer may prove to be beneficial for your legal case if you have been injured due to driver fatigue.  

4. Blind Spots and Visibility Issues: 

In relative terms, there are many more blind spots on commercial trucks compared to cars, such that it is almost impossible for a driver to see vehicles that are tucked in behind. Pockets around commercial vehicles that are sometimes referred to as “No Zones” lead to very hazardous conditions from other vehicles attempting shifts of lanes or merging within. Obstructions in visibility can also be caused by the height of the truck itself, and drivers hardly see smaller vehicles buried in traffic when driving heavy vehicles. 

5. Cargo Hazards  

Carrying loads of substantial weight or hazardous nature always exists, even more so in cases of commercial truck accidents. Loose cargo is a threat in transit as well, as turnover may occur due to the movement of unsecured freight within the vehicle. Additionally, in the case of a roadway accident involving a truck with a load of dangerous cargo, there is always the prospect of releasing toxic substances or causing fires or explosions, which jeopardizes everyone located in the area. 

6. Adverse Weather Conditions  

The movement of trucks is consistent with or without certain weather conditions, and this is a bad practice as such weather can lead to capital losses. Rain, snow, fog, ice, all these phenomena operate to reduce visibility and available traction and thus the control of truck drivers. It is apparent that tire pressure can be an adjustable factor despite one’s experience in operating an automobile. It is one thing to use good weather tires in bad weather and another relying on the driver’s adjustment to such weather conditions. 

• Also read: Understand Your Rights with the Help of a Truck Accident Lawyer Today

Need Legal Help? Contact a lawyer 

Commercial truck accidents are dangerous because some trucks are comparatively large in size, the stopping distances are longer, driver exhaustion is often present, blind spots loom, cargo can be hazardous, and weather can act up. All road users need to appreciate these dangers.  

If you ever find yourself in an unfortunate circumstance such as a commercial truck accident, looking for a truck accident lawyer in Philadelphia can help you. With their assistance, it will not be so hard to deal with the legal procedures and you will be able to fight for the compensation that you rightly deserve.