Trucking Accident Lawyers in Dayton, OH: Seeking out the Reasons behind Tractor-Trailer Accidents

More than 500,000 accidents involving eighteen-wheelers occur each year on America’s roadways according to the latest traffic safety reports. Because of the immense size and weight of tractor-trailers, these crashes often result in more extensive injuries and higher fatality rates than accidents involving smaller passenger vehicles. Contrary to what some might believe, weather seldom plays a role in these instances, but certain causes certainly stand out from the rest.

Distractions

Distractions are the main issue Trucking Accident Lawyers in Dayton OH see when dealing with cases involving tractor-trailers. On-board technology like high-end audiovisual equipment may not be quite as prominent in big rigs as it is in passenger vehicles, but truck drivers become preoccupied with their phones and tablets nonetheless. Navigation tools, traditional radios, CBS, and food only serve to compound the problem.

Exhaustion

Eighteen-wheeler drivers are required by law to adhere to a specific ratio of drive time versus rest, but this doesn’t always pan out as it should. Some push themselves beyond the legal limits to boost their paychecks whereas others are under considerable pressure from their employers to meet nearly impossible deadlines. Either way, lack of sleep contributes to thousands of accidents involving tractor-trailers each year.

Equipment Failure

Countless things can go wrong behind the wheel of a big rig. Brake failure, tire blowouts, and engine and transmission malfunctions are only a few of factors falling into this category. Add improperly balanced or secured loads to the mix, and being an operator becomes even more hazardous. Trucking Accident Lawyers in Dayton OH face specific difficulties when equipment failure is the issue at hand because proving fault is a highly complicated matter. Anyone from the owner or driver to mechanics or parts manufacturers may be responsible.

While eighteen-wheeler accidents involve many of the same causes as other types of crashes, their consequences tend to be far more serious. This is true of the truck drivers as well as passenger vehicles or pedestrians who may be affected. Browse our website if you’ve been in an accident involving a tractor-trailer to learn more about your rights and find help in seeking justice.