When a commercial vehicle is involved in a crash, it's rarely "just an accident." Many are caused by preventable factors — and identifying the cause is key to proving liability and securing compensation.
Driver Fatigue
Federal regulations limit how many consecutive hours a commercial driver can operate their vehicle, but violations are common. Fatigued driving impairs reaction time and judgment in ways similar to alcohol intoxication — and when a fatigued driver is behind the wheel of a 40-ton truck, the results can be catastrophic.
Distracted Driving
Commercial drivers are not immune to the dangers of distracted driving. Texting, adjusting GPS systems, eating, or even adjusting radio controls while driving at highway speeds can lead to deadly crashes.
Speeding and Reckless Driving
Delivery deadlines and tight schedules can pressure drivers to speed or drive aggressively. Speeding reduces stopping distance dramatically — especially dangerous for heavy vehicles.
Poor Vehicle Maintenance
Commercial vehicles must be regularly inspected and maintained. Brake failures, tire blowouts, and steering defects caused by neglected maintenance can make the company — not just the driver — liable for resulting accidents.
Improper Loading and Cargo Shifts
Overloaded or improperly secured cargo can shift during transit, causing the driver to lose control. Third-party loaders may share liability in these cases.
Driving Under the Influence
Commercial drivers are held to a stricter DUI standard than regular drivers (0.04% BAC vs. 0.08%). Nevertheless, impaired driving by commercial operators remains a serious cause of crashes.
What This Means for Your Claim
Each of these causes points to a different potentially liable party — the driver, the employer, the vehicle owner, or a contractor. An experienced attorney can investigate the cause and ensure all responsible parties are held accountable. Contact Persinger & Persinger for a free consultation today.