Understanding Causes and Contributing Factors of Truck Accidents in Texas

Every year, thousands of lives are tragically altered by 18-wheeler accidents. These massive, intimidating vehicles can cause catastrophic damage, and when things go wrong, the results are often devastating. 

If you’ve been involved in such an accident, it’s crucial to understand that these incidents are rarely “just accidents.” Often, there are serious causes of truck accidents, they could be the result of negligence, reckless behavior, or even corporate malpractice. 

If you or someone you love has been a victim of an 18-wheeler accident, securing an experienced 18-wheeler truck accident lawyer could be your first step toward justice in Texas.

The Sheer Power of 18-Wheelers

An 18-wheeler truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded, compared to a standard passenger vehicle that weighs around 3,000 pounds. The disparity is staggering, and when these trucks collide with smaller vehicles, the results are usually disastrous. 

Fatalities, severe injuries, and lifelong disabilities are all too common in these accidents. What, therefore, is the initial cause of these accidents? 

Let’s dive into the common causes of truck accidents and what to do after a truck accident?

What Types of Trucks Cause Most Truck Accidents?

The types of trucks most commonly involved in accidents include 18-wheelers, semi-trucks, and tractor-trailers. These large commercial vehicles are often difficult to maneuver, have substantial blind spots, and require longer stopping distances, making them more prone to collisions. 

Additionally, dump trucks and tanker trucks, due to their size, weight, and potential hazardous cargo, also contribute to a significant number of accidents. Serious accidents are more likely when cargo is overloaded or not securely fastened, as this might result in rollovers or a loss of control.

Understanding the specific challenges associated with these trucks can help in developing safety measures and accident prevention strategies.

Who Can Be Held Liable for a Truck Accident in Texas?

Liability in a truck accident in Texas can extend beyond the driver. Several parties may be held accountable, including the trucking company, if they failed to enforce proper safety protocols or required the driver to exceed legal driving hours. 

The truck manufacturer or maintenance provider can also be liable if the accident resulted from faulty equipment or improper repairs. Additionally, cargo loaders can be held responsible if improper loading leads to the accident. 

Identifying all potentially liable parties is crucial in a truck accident case to ensure fair compensation for damages and injuries.

Driver-Related Causes of Truck Accidents

Driver-related causes are a leading factor in many truck accidents. Common issues include driver fatigue, often resulting from long hours behind the wheel without adequate rest. 

Speeding and aggressive driving are also significant contributors, as they reduce the driver’s ability to react to sudden changes in traffic. Distracted driving, such as texting or using a GPS while driving, can lead to critical lapses in attention. 

Additionally, impaired driving due to alcohol, drugs, or prescription medications can severely affect judgment and reaction time, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Proper training and adherence to safety regulations are essential to mitigating these risks.

Causes of Truck Accidents Not Related to Drivers

Not all truck accidents are caused by driver error. Mechanical failures, such as brake malfunctions or tire blowouts, can lead to catastrophic accidents. 

Truck crashes can also be caused by unfavorable road conditions, such as potholes, construction zones, or shoddy signs.

Additionally, weather-related factors like heavy rain, fog, or icy roads can make it challenging for truck drivers to maintain control, especially when carrying heavy loads. 

Cargo-related issues, such as overloading or unsecured cargo, can cause the truck to become unbalanced and prone to rollovers. Addressing these non-driver-related factors is critical for enhancing overall road safety.

Call Mokaram Law Firm Today

Don’t let the negligence of a truck driver or a corporate entity ruin your life. At Mokaram Law Firm, we specialize in holding trucking companies and drivers accountable for their actions. With years of experience, our staff is prepared to fight forcefully on your side. Call us today at (281) 609-9224 to schedule a free consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your rights, and develop a strategy to help you get the justice and compensation you deserve.

FAQs

What are the stats of truck accidents in Texas?

Texas records over 30,000 truck accidents annually, making it the state with the highest number of commercial vehicle collisions in the U.S., often resulting in significant injuries and fatalities.

What percentage of truck accidents are caused by cars?

Around 70-75% of truck accidents are caused by passenger vehicles, often due to unsafe driving practices like tailgating, improper lane changes, or speeding around large trucks.

What truck has the most accidents?

18-wheelers, or tractor-trailers, are involved in the majority of truck accidents due to their size, weight, and the high volume of these vehicles on the road for commercial transport.