Truck Accident Statistics: Know the facts
In fact, large trucks are much more likely to be involved in a fatal multi-vehicle crash than are passenger vehicles. 68 percent of these truck accidents occur in rural areas, 66 percent occur during the daytime, and 78 percent occur on weekdays. At first glance, it seems strange that driving during the day time, on week days, and in rural areas carries the highest risk. However, some of these accidents may be due to the fact that tractor trailer drivers are paid per mile driven. This compensation structure may lead the drivers to push harder, especially in conditions that they perceive as “safe.” This can cause preventable truck accidents.
Many of these accidents may have also been prevented if the trucking companies mandate clean driving records. Indeed, about 27 percent of all large truck drivers involved in fatal truck accidents throughout the United States had at least one prior speeding conviction. This is significantly larger than the 19 percent of passenger vehicle drivers involved in fatal crashes. Sadly, even if the collision is the fault of the driver of the commercial vehicle, the driver of the passenger vehicle is much more likely to be fatally injured. The number of truck drivers killed in collisions is far lower than that of drivers of passenger cars, due to the height and weight of the tractor trailers.
Although 75 percent of accidents involving a truck and a passenger vehicle are the fault of the smaller vehicle, the extreme fatality rate associated with these collisions means that truck drivers need to be especially vigilant in order to prevent these accidents from occurring. Truck drivers need to be experienced and well trained; then, they will know how to drive defensively and in such a way as to prevent truck accidents before they happen.
A large number of truck accidents can be avoided if the truck itself is well maintained and the load is strapped down securely. Defects in certain parts of the truck can also cause accidents, so proper care must be taken to ensure that the tires, brakes, engines, and other components are in working order.
The number of truck accidents every year is very large. The statistics show that truck accidents are much more deadly than normal passenger vehicle accidents. If you have been involved in an accident with a truck, the numbers show you’re not alone. Get legal representation today.