Galveston truck crashes happen for numerous reasons, including driver distraction, driver impairment, and mechanical failures. Crashes may also occur as a result of a truck driver being fatigued or suffering a medical emergency. Reckless driving, including speeding, running red lights, and illegal lane changes, is also common. All of these can lead to crashes.
Consider the most common causes of Galveston truck crashes and who may be responsible for them when they occur. Then, speak with a Galveston truck accident lawyer about your case.
Truck Driver Distraction
Truck drivers behind the wheel of an 18-wheeler must maintain full focus on the roadway. However, adjustments to navigational systems, texting or talking on the phone, eating and drinking, or other activities can create a distraction that results in a serious risk of loss of control. Distraction limits a driver’s ability to act fast enough.
Truck Driver Fatigue
Truck drivers are at a high risk of being tired behind the wheel due to the long routes and hours they work. The federal government’s hours of service regulations require that truck drivers take frequent breaks and must have substantial time off to sleep after working long shifts. When this does not happen, the trucker may be unable to react to changing road conditions, resulting in a serious risk of accidents.
Mechanical Failures
Trucks operate for thousands of miles every month. As they do, the risk of a serious breakdown increases if the vehicle does not have proper maintenance and upkeep. Brakes, tires, and other mechanical system failures can put others at risk when the driver cannot control the vehicle.
Reckless Operation of the Vehicle
In some situations, drivers may engage in dangerous activities. For example, speeding is a highly reckless behavior since it takes trucks so much longer to slow and stop. Illegal lane changes, failing to stop at red lights, turning without stopping, or failing to yield the right-of-way are common causes of serious truck accidents in Galveston.
Cargo-Related Accidents
Any type of delivery truck or tractor-trailer carrying cargo has added weight and a change in the center of gravity that must be considered. Cargo companies are typically third-party organizations that load these trucks. If they fail to follow best practices in securing the cargo or the truck is overweight, this can cause the driver to be unable to control the vehicle in difficult conditions. If cargo comes loose, it may also strike others on the road, creating a hazard.
Impairment
There is a zero tolerance for alcohol and drug use by drivers. The risk of being in a serious accident is very high when impairment occurs. In some situations, drivers may suffer from impairment resulting from the use of prescription or over-the-counter medications and products. In all cases, if the driver cannot control the vehicle, accidents occur.
Poor Road Conditions
Weather, potholes, and debris in roadways increase the risk of serious accidents occurring. When weather conditions are poor, drivers must adjust their driving to account for the higher risk or avoid operating on the road. Failing to do so can increase the risk of accidents.
Finding the Cause of a Truck Accident
To understand the cause of your Galveston truck crash as the victim, contact your local attorney about your legal options. Your lawyer will gather evidence to substantiate any claims to determine who is at fault.