What Are The Major Causes Of 18-Wheeler Accidents?

Table of Contents

1. What Are The Major Causes Of 18-Wheeler Accidents?

   • Introduction

2. Common Causes Of 18-Wheeler Truck Accidents On Highways

   • Driver-related causes

   • Vehicle-related causes

   • Weather/environment-related causes

   • Operational or external factors

3. What Causes Most 18-Wheeler Crashes in the U.S.?

   • How driver fatigue contributes to 18-wheeler crashes

     • Signs of a fatigued driver

     • Factors contributing to driver fatigue

   • Driver negligence as a cause of 18-wheeler accidents

     • What’s driver negligence in an 18-wheeler collision?

     • Examples of driver negligence

   • Speeding and reckless driving by truck drivers

   • Lack of driver training causing 18-wheeler collisions

   • Truck driver distraction from GPS or radio use

   • Unsafe lane changes by 18-wheeler drivers

4. Leading Reasons Behind 18-Wheeler Accidents and Collisions

   • Complexities in operating commercial vehicles like an 18-wheeler

   • Mechanical failure leading to 18-wheeler truck wrecks

   • Human error

   • Poor truck maintenance causing 18-wheeler accidents

   • Inadequate vehicle inspection before long-haul trips

     • Vehicle inspection checklist for 18-wheelers

   • Overloaded or improperly loaded trucks causing accidents

     • Dangers of overloaded or improperly loaded trucks

     • How overloaded or improperly loaded trucks lead to accidents

5. Weather-Related Causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents

   • Common weather conditions that lead to semi-truck accidents

   • Driver responsibility in bad weather

   • Other key points to remember

6. Blind Spot Errors Leading to 18-Wheeler Side-Impact Crashes

   • The four major blind spots in 18-wheelers

   • Why blind spots are more dangerous

   • Blind spot accident liability

   • Blind spots leading to side-swipe collisions

7. What Can Be Done to Avoid the Risk of 18-Wheeler Accidents?

   • Proper training for truck drivers

   • Adhere to legal driving hours

   • Regular tests for impaired driving

   • Proper maintenance of vehicles

8. Tips for Sharing the Roads and Reducing Accidents

   • Ensure a safe following distance

   • Stay out of blind spots

   • Slow down

   • Don’t cut trucks off

   • Let trucks turn

9. Protecting Your Rights After an 18-Wheeler Accident

   • Legal support and compensation

   • Final thoughts

18-wheeler trucks are crucial in transporting goods across the nation. However, they are dangerous due to their sheer size and weight. Hence, if these vehicles are involved in an accident, the consequences can be deadly. With so many 18-wheelers and other large trucks moving through the roads of Riverhead, New York, accidents are unfortunately common. In such cases, consulting a New York truck accident lawyer can help victims understand their legal rights, gather crucial evidence, and pursue rightful compensation. It is therefore important to understand the causes behind these accidents and how to prevent them.

This blog focuses on ‘What are the major causes of 18-wheeler accidents? Read on to know why such accidents happen and know the ways to stay safe on the road and navigate the aftermath of the accident.

Common Causes Of 18-Wheeler Truck Accidents On Highways

There are several reasons for an 18-wheeler truck accident. Though the major causes fall on driver error, other reasons, such as operational and external factors, weather and road conditions, still contribute to a significant number of accidents on highways.

Let’s see some common causes here:

Driver-related causes:

• Driver Fatigue
• Distracted Driving
• Over speeding
• Poor training
• Impaired driving
• Cellphones & Text Messaging
• Aggressive/reckless driving

Vehicle-related causes:

• Tire blowouts
• Poor Vehicle Maintenance
• Defective parts or equipment failure
• Improperly loaded cargo

Weather/environment-related causes:

• Poorly maintained roads
• Bad weather conditions
• Lighting issues

Operational or External factors

• Blind spots
• Pressure from employers
• Violating regulations
• Underride collisions

What causes most 18-wheeler crashes in the U.S?

Large commercial trucks that include 18-wheelers and semi-trucks contribute to nearly 13% of overall motor vehicle collisions in the U.S. If an 18-wheeler accident happens, it results in catastrophic consequences, often ending up in major injuries or fatalities.

One of the major causes for most 18-wheeler crashes in the U.S is Driver fatigue.

Unlike other drivers, truck drivers typically spend weeks on the road and have tight delivery schedules and limited rest hours. However, the FMCSA Hours of Service rules limit driving shifts and require taking mandatory rest breaks.  However, often these guidelines are violated by some trucking companies and drivers.

1. How driver fatigue contributes to 18-wheeler crashes?

As per the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, 13% of commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers causing accidents are found to be fatigued at the time of collision.

Signs of a fatigued driver

• Drowsy driving
• Physical or mental exhaustion
• Decreased reaction time
• Reduced focus levels on the road
• Drifting into other lanes/off the road
• Impaired decision making

Factors contributing to driver fatigue:

• Long hours behind the wheel
• Not having sound sleep
• Poor working and road conditions
• Medications and health issues
• Ineffective fatigue management

Tight schedules and expectations of employers push drivers to violate rules, speed to their destinations without enough breaks or rest hours. This causes physical and mental pressure and stress to drivers, ultimately increasing the risk of an accident.

2. Driver negligence as a cause of 18-wheeler accidents

The negligence of the 18-wheelers can turn 80,000-pound trucks into dangerous incidents. Operating a commercial vehicle like an 18-wheeler or truck is a complicated task that requires specialized skills and focus. If the drivers skip safety guidelines and act negligently, it can lead to major crashes on the highways of Riverhead, New York.

What’s driver negligence in an 18-wheeler collision?

If the driver fails to drive safely and it results in serious injuries and damages to another vehicle and person, it is the driver’s negligence. Proving the driver’s negligence is an important aspect in claiming compensation for truck accident claims.

Examples of driver negligence

• Not adhering to the service laws
• Changing lanes without checking blind spots
• Drunk driving
• Using cell phones while driving
• Speeding

Speeding and reckless driving by truck drivers

Speeding is dangerous with any vehicle. It is still more dangerous with 18-wheelers. FMCSA indicates that speeding remains a major factor, and it contributes to 23% of accidents in a year.

Speeding and reckless driving include:

• Exceeding the posted speed limit
• Fast driving in traffic or weather conditions
• Pushing maximum speed
• Aggressive driving
• Not adjusting for road hazards, curves, gradients or traffic congestion

Lack of driver training is causing 18-wheeler collisions

Drivers require special driving skills to operate a large commercial vehicle. When it comes to the question of what are the causes of 18-wheeler accidents, lack of driver training is often a pressing concern. For those aspiring to enter truck driving, the FMCSA has set national training standards for driver training and awareness. However, when inadequate training leads to serious crashes, victims may need the assistance of an experienced 18-wheeler truck accident lawyer to investigate the cause, prove negligence, and seek rightful compensation.

For safe driving on the roads of New York, drivers must have successfully completed their training and gained notable experience before driving large commercial vehicles. Poor or lack of training can lead to:

• Reduced skills in vehicle control and handling
• Poor inspection and maintenance awareness
• Lack of awareness about regulations and compliance with rules
• Failing to adapt to complex driving conditions

Truck driver distraction from GPS or radio use

Distracted drivers are the leading cause of 18-wheeler accidents. When looking into the reason for the distraction of the driver, GPS or radio use is one of the common causes.

Adjusting the GPS navigation systems, radio or using cell phones divert the attention of the driver. As this leads to delayed responses, accidents can result.

Looking away from the road and paying attention to something like adjusting the GPS or radio controls can trigger accidents, as it increases the chances for lane deviations and drifting.

Unsafe lane changes by 18-wheeler drivers

The sheer size of commercial vehicles forces smaller passenger vehicles out of their lanes. As the large trucks have a considerable number of blind spots, the drivers should be more cautious when they navigate between lanes. However, if the driver is negligent and does not adhere to the safety guidelines, the consequences are devastating.

Some common unsafe lane changes by 18-wheeler drivers include:

• Splitting between two lanes
• Driving under the influence
• Distracted driving
• Not signalling before making a lane change
• Not looking for blind spots and ensuring that there are no other vehicles in the lane before merging
• Cutting other vehicles off

Leading reasons behind 18-wheeler accidents and collisions

Riverhead roads have witnessed a range of accidents, and numerous factors contribute to collisions. As discussed above, driver fatigue is one of the predominant issues for 18-wheeler accidents and collisions. Some other major factors lead to crashes.

1. Complexities in operating commercial vehicles like an 18-wheeler

Driving a commercial truck is more complex than other passenger vehicles. A full-loaded 18-wheeler can weigh up to 80,000 pounds. Operating such as a vehicle requires specialized knowledge of managing blind spots, turning radii, and comprehensive skills with brakes. Unless the driver is experienced, the situation becomes delicate and accidents can happen in seconds.

2. Mechanical failure leading to 18-wheeler truck wrecks

Mechanical failures also equally contribute to 18-wheeler collisions in New York. Some of the failures lead to a crash, including:

• Worn brakes
• Under-inflated tires
• Malfunctioning lights
• Tire blowouts
• Brakes failing

The risk of mechanical failures is hazardous. If a tire blows out or a brake fails on a highway, the driver may lose control, leading to collisions.

3. Human error

Human error is the core reason for most 18-wheeler accidents. Factors such as fatigue, distraction, poor training and decision-making can lead to a collision. All fatal accidents have a substantial part of driver fatigue as a common cause.

4. Poor truck maintenance causing 18-wheeler accidents

The giant size and weight of semi-trucks and 18-wheelers require regular maintenance. Even a small defect in the vehicle can lead to catastrophic consequences. Considering this, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), as per 49 Code of Federal Regulations Part 396, has levied maintenance schedules for all commercial vehicles. This includes:

• All motor carriers should adhere to a regular system of inspection, repair and maintenance
• Accessories and parts of vehicles should be ensured for safety and proper working conditions
• A qualified person should inspect the vehicle every 12 months
• If the vehicle is not in operating condition, it should not be on the road
• Truck inspection and maintenance records should be recorded and documented

Poor truck maintenance makes the 18-wheeler unfit for operating on the roads. Potential problems that can arise due to a lack of maintenance include:

• Tire blowouts
• Brake failure
• Steering issues
• Electrical issues
• Engine failure
• Trailer coupling failures
• Signalling and lighting malfunctions
• Suspension defects

Semi-trucks should be maintained in top condition. Otherwise, the drivers may find it to have an effective control over them, leading to collisions. Out of 10 crashes, one crash is caused due to a vehicle issue.

5. Inadequate vehicle inspection before long-haul trips

A successful long-haul trip majorly depends on preparedness. Performing detailed pre-inspections is essential for truck safety. These prior inspections make sure that the vehicle is perfect for operating on the road, thus mitigating the chances of breakdowns and accidents.

A detailed pre-inspection checklist will help in identifying and fixing potential issues. Right before a truck is ready for a long-haul trip, it should never be rushed, and skipping these inspections. Inadequate vehicle inspection before long-haul trips should be avoided for truck safety.

Vehicle inspection checklist for 18-wheeler includes:

• Parking brake examination
• Steering mechanism
• Service brakes
• Trailer brake connections
• Lighting devices and reflectors
• Horn
• Tires
• Windshield wipers
• Rear vision mirrors
• Wheels and rims
• Coupling devices
• Emergency equipment
• Fuel tank and battery check
• Fluid inspection

An inadequate pre-trip vehicle inspection can cause serious incidents on the roads. As 18-wheelers are complex machines and can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, perfect coordination of all vehicle parts is important for utmost safety. A small defect can trigger a major chain reaction on the highways.

6. Overloaded or improperly loaded trucks causing accidents

Reports say that in 2012, over 3,900 fatalities and 104,000 people suffered from injuries due to truck accidents. A major reason behind such collisions is the loss of driver control, and overloading or improperly loaded trucks are the primary reasons for this loss of control.

Dangers of overloaded or improperly loaded trucks

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) enforced the truck companies to make sure that they don’t exceed weight limits. Commercial trucks are designed to carry a safe cargo weight, which is typically printed on the identification of the vehicle. If an 18-wheeler is overloaded, the performance of the vehicle will decline. Also, exceeding the weight limits causes the driver to face difficulties while changing lanes.

After the cargo has been weighed, it should be properly secured onto the truck. This secured packing prevents cargo from moving around while moving. Unsecured cargo can lead to a significant number of problems. If the unsecured cargo shifts to a side, the truck will roll on the side during the time that the driver changes lanes. A piece of debris that falls off the cargo can cause major property damage and extensive injuries.

How do overloaded or improperly loaded trucks lead to accidents?

Improper or overloaded trucks can cause a variety of scenarios that lead to accidents, including:

Tire blowouts

Improperly loaded cargoes put more stress on the tires and can significantly impact the performance of the vehicle on the roads. In such circumstances, tire blowouts can happen. If the tire blows out, the driver will lose control, which can lead to a vehicle rollover.

Truck rollover

Errors in cargo loading remain the major cause of the truck rollovers. If the cargo weight exceeds the limit, it affects the centre of gravity, thus causing the truck to roll over.

Falling or spilling cargo

If the cargo is not properly secured, it could lead to fall off or spilling of the cargo. The falling cargo puts the vehicles behind the truck at risk of being damaged and can lead to severe injuries. Spilling cargo can easily lead to injuries and damage.

Weather-related causes of 18-wheeler accidents

Weather-related causes also play a major role in 18-wheeler accidents. Understanding how and what weather-related causes can lead to 18-wheeler collisions helps to protect victims from such accidents. Moreover, it also helps to strengthen their claims.

Common weather conditions that lead to semi-truck accidents

Poor weather conditions – It includes fog and blowing dust that reduces the visibility of drivers and makes it difficult to see the path ahead.

Snow and ice – operating the semi-trucks on snow and ice roads poses huge risks. As such conditions make the roads slippery, require a long stopping distance and less grip for tires, these winter conditions are very challenging for 18-wheelers.

Heavy rain and flood – Heavy rain conditions lead to flash flooding and can lead to loss of control of the vehicle.

Heat – Extreme heat conditions can cause an 18-wheeler to face mechanical failures and tire blowouts. Intense sunlight glare can blind drivers and make it hard to drive. Drivers may not be able to see other motorists, leading to unsafe lanes and collisions.

High winds – During high winds like hurricanes or tornadoes, semi-trucks can roll over or tip over. Winds can reach up to 100 miles per hour during the summer. These conditions reduce the visibility of drivers and potentially can cause multi-car pileups.

Driver responsibility becomes a core thing, even with weather-related causes

Even though bad weather conditions are threatening, the responsibility of truck drivers still can’t be ignored. Drivers should be trained enough to tackle adverse weather scenarios.

Other key points to remember:

• Federal and state laws instruct drivers to stop or slow down in unsafe weather conditions
• Drivers should carry out necessary pre-inspections regarding bad weather conditions.
• Unless proper training is provided to drivers, they may tend to make mistakes during snowfall, storms, or foggy weather conditions.
• Bad decisions taken by unskilled drivers are more likely to increase the chances of collisions.

Blind spot errors leading to 18-wheeler side-impact crashes

Thousands of passengers share the highway roads of New York, which include 18-wheelers. Trucks typically have 4 major blind spots, which are also called ‘No zones’. These blind spots are the areas that are located directly behind the truck, side doors and in front of the vehicle. In these areas, truck drivers will have the least or no visibility. The four blind spots include:

1. Front blind spot
2. Rear blind spot
3. Side blind spot – along both sides

Why are blind spots more dangerous?

The large size and length of 18-wheelers make blind spots more concerning. Compared with other vehicles, the blind spots in large trucks are larger, which can extend up to 30 feet behind the trailer. Hence, the truck drivers find it difficult to see the passing vehicles and pedestrians. Being conscious about blind spots is highly important for safe truck driving.

Blind Spot 18-wheeler Accident Liability

Although often blind spots are stated as the reason for a collision, it still can’t be the sole cause of the accident. Truck drivers should have been trained to operate commercial vehicles and be aware of the blind spots of the vehicle, and the necessary steps to prevent blind spot errors that lead to 18-wheeler side-impact crashes.

Based on the scenario, both the truck driver and the trucking company will be accountable for the accident. Truck drivers are expected to be more responsible while merging or changing lanes. Failing to check blind spots makes the drivers liable for any resulting accidents.

Blind spots leading to side-swipe collisions

If the side of the truck collides with another vehicle travelling along the side, side-swipe collisions occur. Blind spots play a big role in ways such as:

Lane changes

Without being known of a smaller vehicle in the blind spot, a truck driver may switch lanes.

Driver fatigue

A fatigued or distracted driver will fail to check blind spots and leading to collisions.

Merging

18-wheelers that enter highways or change lanes have a lower chance of noticing the vehicles in adjacent lanes.

Turns

Wide turns sweep across blind spots and trap cars.

What can be done to avoid the risk of 18-wheeler accidents?

Proper training for truck drivers

Truck drivers should be given specialized training and be certified and qualified to operate an 18-wheeler. They should be familiar with federal and state guidelines and defensive driving techniques.

Adhere to legal driving hours

The truck drivers should obey the legal driving hours and have to be given adequate breaks and rest hours. This will reduce the chances of major error – driver fatigue.

Regular test for impaired driving

The truck drivers should be constantly monitored for driving under the influence. They should be monitored for use of drugs or alcohol and ensured not to be impaired while operating the truck.

Proper maintenance of vehicles

Trucking companies should follow regular maintenance schedules and inspections. These checks include a thorough inspection of brakes, tires, and all safety aspects of the truck.

Tips for sharing the roads and reducing accidents

Ensure a safe following distance

The sheer size of the commercial vehicles is the biggest danger of major collisions. Though tailgating any vehicle is dangerous, it is even more dangerous with 18-wheelers and other large trucks.

Stay out of blind spots

Similar to cars, trucks have blind spots, and they are bigger. So, you have to be cautious in blind spots.

Slow downs

Sharing the road with commercial vehicles needs a little more attentiveness. They are big, and hence, other drivers have to slow down and accommodate them.

Don’t cut the trucks off

Larger trucks carry tons of cargo. This makes it impossible to have immediate stops. If you approach those vehicles too closely, you are at risk.

Let the trucks turn

Watch for the signal of the truck driver and stay out of their way if you are about to turn your vehicle. Never try to race alongside bigger vehicles and let them complete their turn.

Protecting your rights after an 18-wheeler accident

We hope that you have a clear understanding of what are the major causes of 18-wheeler accidents. When the above-listed factors contribute to a disastrous collision, you will need a skilled truck accident attorney to navigate the complex legal processes and preserve your rights. The aftermath of 18-wheeler collisions is dramatic. By protecting your legal rights and getting deserved compensation, you can manage the situation. The moment after a collision was frightening. With the right legal support, you can recover from the losses.

An 18-wheeler accident is devastating, and we believe this guide helps you to give clarity on the complex factors that lead to collisions.