Large commercial trucks are a fundamental part of Indiana’s economy, helping move goods and sustain commerce throughout the state. Despite their value, these massive vehicles can also pose serious risks to other motorists on our roads. Truck collisions tend to be far more severe than regular passenger vehicle accidents due to the sheer size and weight of commercial vehicles. Understanding the main causes behind these catastrophic accidents can help Hoosiers stay vigilant and prepared.
Below are the five most common causes of truck accidents in Indiana:
1. Driver Fatigue
Long-haul truck drivers often face grueling schedules with tight delivery deadlines. Extended hours behind the wheel and insufficient rest can lead to fatigue, drastically reducing reaction time and attentiveness. Despite regulations that require mandatory rest breaks, drowsy driving remains a significant contributor to crashes involving big rigs.
2. Speeding
Pressure to meet shipment schedules, as well as financial incentives, may push some truck drivers to exceed safe speed limits. High-speed trucking not only makes stopping these large vehicles more difficult, it also increases the severity of any collision. Speeding, whether due to urgency or negligence, is one of the top factors in many trucking accidents across Indiana.
3. Distracted Driving
As with all drivers, distractions can spell disaster for those driving commercial vehicles. Using a phone, eating, adjusting controls, or becoming momentarily distracted can have devastating outcomes due to the longer stopping distances and larger blind spots associated with trucks. Even a brief lapse in concentration can result in a life-altering crash.
4. Improper Vehicle Maintenance
Commercial trucks require routine inspections and meticulous upkeep. Worn brake pads, faulty tires, broken headlights, or malfunctioning steering components can all create hazardous conditions. When trucks are not properly maintained, the risk of equipment failure increases significantly, putting both drivers and the public in peril.
5. Unsafe Loading Practices
Cargo that is improperly loaded or inadequately secured can shift during transit, causing a truck to become unbalanced or even tip over. Overloaded trucks may also have trouble stopping promptly, while uneven loads can impact the driver’s ability to maintain control, particularly when navigating turns or sudden stops. Ensuring that cargo is correctly loaded and secured is crucial for everyone’s safety on the road.
Truck accidents in Indiana are often the result of multiple factors coming together—a fatigued driver, a poorly maintained truck, or a split-second distraction. While commercial trucking companies must adhere to federal and state safety regulations, these rules are not always closely followed.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a trucking accident, understanding the underlying causes can be the first step toward protecting your rights and seeking compensation. In the aftermath of such an event, it’s important to gather evidence, secure medical attention, and reach out to professionals experienced in trucking accident claims. By staying informed and vigilant, we can all work toward making Indiana’s roadways safer for everyone.