Semi-trucks are essential in many industries in Texas, including oil and gas, cattle production, and more. Those big rigs clog up Texas highways and increase the risk of trucking accidents. In fact, in 2021, there were 38,149 total commercial motor vehicle crashes in Texas. It is important to know the leading causes of truck accidents to help prevent future cases.
The Oil Industry Makes Truck Accidents More Frequent
Between May 2021 and April 2022, more than 1.5 billion barrels of crude oil and 10.8 trillion cubic feet of gas were produced in Texas. It takes a lot of big trucks to haul those products. This booming industry has increased the frequency of trucking accidents throughout Texas.
Many counties with the most oil production see a high rate of commercial truck crashes. The top 10 crude oil-producing counties include:
- Midland County – 354 crashes
- Martin County – 107 crashes
- Howard County – 130 crashes
- Karnes County – 45 crashes
- Upton County – 32 crashes
- Reeves County – 138 crashes
- Loving County – 28 crashes
- Reagan County – 20 crashes
- Glasscock County – 17 crashes
- Ward County – 108 crashes
Many counties surrounding these locations also have a high crash rate because trucks travel through them.
Top Five Most Common Causes of Trucking Accidents in Texas
Like all motor vehicle accidents, the most common cause of trucking accidents can be attributed to human error. However, other factors could be at play.
1. Equipment Failures
One of the primary causes of trucking accidents includes equipment failure due to improper maintenance and inspection. Equipment may also be defective and cause a big truck crash. It’s vital that drivers inspect their trucks before and after every trip. Companies must properly maintain their fleet. If any dangerous equipment is noticed, it should be replaced or fixed right away.
Most maintenance failure includes:
- Brakes that were not changed according to schedule
- Tires that are heavily worn and blow-out
- Transmissions that fail because they were not maintained
Trucking companies, manufacturers, and drivers can all be held accountable when equipment failure causes a crash.
2. Improper Cargo Loading
The cargo must be properly loaded on a truck bed, including strapping it down and evenly distributing the weight. Improper loading can cause a driver to lose control of the vehicle or jackknife on the road, all of which may lead to a severe truck accident. Truck drivers, contractors, and shippers may be held responsible for improper cargo loading.
3. Improper Driver Training
Trucking companies are responsible for ensuring their drivers receive proper training. Drivers who own their own companies may also be accountable for their knowledge of regulations. However, many truck driving courses push drivers through quickly, and those individuals do not have enough understanding of the challenges they will face on the road. Novice truck drivers often cause accidents, and multiple parties may be at fault.
4. Fatigued Driving
Federal trucking regulations keep drivers from going long hours without breaks, and employers should enforce those laws. However, trucking companies often force drivers to push themselves to work more hours and sleep as little as possible. Some drivers resort to taking drugs to stay awake. The combination of fatigue and intoxication can result in slower response times, leading to an increased risk of accidents.
5. Distracted Driving
Many trucking accidents are caused by distracted driving. Truckers must pay attention to many things while on the road, including their radio and GPS device. They may also be distracted by illegal cell phone use or eating and drinking while driving. Driving a truck is demanding, and any distraction can lead to a higher risk of a crash.
A Truck Accident Lawyer Can Help After a Crash
If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident, Kemmy Law Firm is here. We have a compassionate team of legal professionals dedicated to helping you move forward with life. Call us today at 844-334–4388 to learn your options.
Kemmy Law Firm serves clients across Texas and New Mexico:
Truck Accident Attorneys in Odessa, Texas
101 N Jackson Ave
Odessa, Texas 79761
Truck Accident Attorneys in Hobbs, New Mexico
1601 N. Turner, Suite 417
Hobbs, NM 88240
Truck Accident Attorneys in San Antonio, Texas
1924 N Main Ave
San Antonio, Texas 78212
The post What Are the Main Causes of Trucking Accidents? appeared first on Kemmy Law Firm.
