San Diego is known for its beautiful coastal highways and busy ports that see thousands of commercial trucks every day. With such heavy truck traffic, accidents are unfortunately common in this region. If you or someone you know has been injured in a truck crash, speaking with a San Diego, CA truck accident lawyer can help you understand your legal options.
Truck accidents often have devastating consequences because of the sheer size and weight of these vehicles. In many cases, the cause is driver negligence. Here are the most common forms of negligence that lead to such accidents.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is a leading cause of truck accidents. Truck drivers spend long hours on the road, making them prone to distractions. They might use their phone to text or check GPS, eat while driving, adjust the radio, or become lost in thought due to fatigue.
Even a momentary distraction can be deadly when operating a vehicle weighing tens of thousands of pounds. Taking eyes off the road for just five seconds at highway speeds can cover the length of a football field.
Speeding
Speeding is another common form of negligence. Truck drivers are often under pressure to deliver goods within strict deadlines. To meet these demands, they may drive above speed limits, especially on open highways.
However, large trucks need a much longer stopping distance compared to smaller vehicles. Driving too fast makes it difficult to stop in time to avoid hazards or sudden traffic slowdowns, often resulting in catastrophic rear-end collisions.
Driving While Fatigued
Federal regulations limit the number of hours truck drivers can operate their vehicles without rest. Despite these rules, driver fatigue remains a significant problem.
Long shifts, tight schedules, and lack of proper sleep can lead to drowsy driving. Fatigue impairs reaction times and decision-making, similar to drunk driving. In worst cases, drivers may fall asleep at the wheel, causing deadly accidents.
Driving Under the Influence
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a form of gross negligence that can have tragic consequences. While most truck drivers adhere to strict rules against substance use, there are still cases where drivers operate trucks while impaired.
Alcohol, illegal drugs, and even certain prescription medications can reduce focus, slow reaction times, and cause poor judgment on the road.
Improper Lane Changes
Truck drivers often change lanes on highways to overtake slower vehicles or exit ramps. Improper lane changes without checking blind spots, using signals, or ensuring there is enough space can lead to dangerous collisions.
Due to the size of trucks, blind spots are large, especially on the sides and rear. Failing to check them carefully before changing lanes is a common negligent action.
Failure to Follow Traffic Rules
Ignoring traffic signals, not yielding the right of way, or failing to adhere to posted signs are all negligent behaviors. Some drivers may roll through stop signs, run red lights, or ignore weight restrictions on certain roads.
Such actions put not only other drivers at risk but also pedestrians and cyclists sharing the road.
Poor Cargo Loading
While not always directly the driver’s fault, improper loading of cargo can result in accidents if the driver fails to check load security before starting the trip.
Shifting or falling cargo can cause rollovers or create debris hazards, leading to multi-vehicle accidents on busy roads.
Conclusion
Truck accidents in San Diego often stem from driver negligence in one or more of these forms. Victims of such accidents may suffer severe injuries, financial loss, and emotional trauma. Identifying the exact cause of negligence is crucial in pursuing rightful compensation.
If you are involved in a truck accident, consult an experienced truck accident lawyer to ensure your rights are protected and to help you navigate the complexities of truck accident claims effectively.
Leave a Reply