Truck accidents are, unfortunately, a common occurrence in Louisiana, and indeed the country as a whole. In 2017 there were 152,637 crashes involving large trucks causing 4,539 fatalities and 74,947 injuries in the United States. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates Commercial Motor Vehicles (CMVs) and focuses their efforts on how to make the vehicles and their drivers safer on the roads.
So what are some of the reasons these truck accidents happen in the state of Louisiana? Here are the most common ones:
1. Speeding and reckless driving
Sadly, one of the leading causes of CMV crashes is due to driver negligence. It is the second leading cause of accidents in the US overall. Driving at increased speed means it takes longer to stop and the weight of the vehicle also means that stopping quickly is more difficult. With a heavy load, these vehicles require 20-40% more distance to come to a complete standstill.
Other reckless driving examples also include changing lanes without checking properly or tailgating.
2. Driver fatigue
Many CMV drivers are required to travel long distances to haul their loads across the country. This can mean that drivers become very tired and don’t take proper breaks. When fatigue sets in, it is all too easy for drivers to lose concentration, make poor decisions, and even fall asleep at the wheel.
3. Driver intoxication
Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs are another common cause of truck accidents in Louisiana. In 2016, 334 traffic fatalities were caused by drivers who were impaired because of alcohol or drug use.
4. Distracted driving
Distracted driving is actually the number one cause of road accidents in the US and is another common cause of truck accidents in the state. Drivers using their mobile phones, eating, drinking, and listening to music at a very high volume can easily have their focus taken away from the road and cause them to make mistakes. From 2011-2015 in Louisiana, 192 traffic fatalities and 26,977 injuries resulted from distracted driving.
5. Mechanical faults
Of course, some of the causes of truck accidents are outside a driver’s control, and mechanical faults are another leading cause of crashes. Defects with tires are a common reason for roadside truck breakdowns, and failures in truck braking systems cause 29% of CMV accidents. To help improve CMV safety, the FMCSA demands that these vehicles are inspected, maintained, and repaired frequently.
If you were injured due to a truck accident, hiring a personal injury lawyer can ensure that you receive the compensation you are entitled to. The experienced attorneys at The Bagneris Firm can protect your rights and fight for your case. Call us at 504-810-3995 for a free, confidential consultation.
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