Commercial truck accidents have increased in frequency in recent years. While it’s easy to focus the blame on human error alone, there are many other factors that can contribute to a motor vehicle accident in Seattle and elsewhere.
Poor maintenance of the vehicle
A truck that isn’t regularly maintained is more likely to be in an accident. This could be due to issues with the brakes, tires or other essential parts of the truck. For instance, if the brakes aren’t regularly serviced, they may not work as well when the truck driver needs to stop suddenly. Besides the brakes, other common truck maintenance issues include bald tires and problems with the truck’s suspension.
Poorly trained or inexperienced drivers
Truck drivers who are poorly trained or don’t have enough experience are more likely to cause an accident. Inexperienced drivers may not know how to properly operate a large truck, while poorly trained drivers may not be up-to-date on the latest safety regulations.
Poor road maintenance
Poorly maintained roads can also contribute to motor vehicle accidents. Potholes, for example, can damage a truck’s tires or suspension, while poorly marked lanes can lead to confusion and accidents. On top of that, roads that are not properly cleared of debris can also be hazardous for trucks.
Poor weather conditions
Bad weather can make it more difficult for truck drivers to see the road and make it more likely that they’ll lose control of their vehicles. Snow, ice, rain and fog are all examples of weather conditions that can contribute to motor vehicle accidents.
Driver fatigue
Driver fatigue is a major problem for truck drivers, as they often have to drive for long hours. Additionally, truck drivers may face pressure from their employers to meet deadlines, which can lead them to push themselves beyond their limits, leading to fatigue.
If you’re a truck driver, make sure your truck is properly maintained and that all essential parts are in good working order. Secondly, get sufficient training and practice operating your truck before hitting the road. Third, be aware of the condition of the roads you’ll be driving on and plan your route accordingly. Finally, take breaks often to avoid driver fatigue and try to avoid driving in bad weather conditions if possible.