Truck drivers must be absolutely perfect on the job because their vehicles are very large and complex. All it takes is a momentary mistake for them to cause a crash that can result in severe injuries. Truck drivers may make mistakes at practically any point behind the wheel. If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck crash, contact an attorney to learn more about a possible lawsuit against the trucking company.

The following are some common truck driver errors that cause crashes:

Speeding

Truck drivers have a limited amount of time behind the wheel. Federal trucking regulations mandate that they take breaks at certain times and cannot have shifts longer than the rules allow. To compensate, truck drivers may speed so they can drive as much distance as possible during their shift. Speeding actually magnifies the force of truck crashes, which is large enough as is. In addition, truck drivers cannot fully control their vehicles when they are speeding.

Driving in Poor Weather Conditions

A truck driver may be under pressure to make deliveries under any circumstances. The fact that there is inclement weather conditions may not be an excuse when their employer is facing an angry customer. There are times when a truck driver should simply be off the road, yet they still try to reach their destination.

Failure to Check Blind Spots

Trucks have more blind spots than the average passenger vehicle. These blind spots are larger and keep the driver from seeing a considerable distance near them. The truck driver must check all of their blind spots before they change lanes or make a turn. However, the truck driver may simply be relying on their mirrors and not looking everywhere around them.

Fatigued Driving

While there are restrictions on the number of hours that a truck driver can be behind the wheel, it is up to the individual driver to determine when they drive. Truck drivers should ensure that they are properly rested before they drive. Unfortunately, many truck drivers operate their vehicles late at night when they know that they can progress the most. Fatigued driving can decrease reflexes and cause the truck driver to lose control.

Failure to Inspect Their Own Vehicle

The truck driver must conduct a visual inspection of their own vehicle before they begin each shift. In addition, they should be familiar with their truck to understand when there may be mechanical problems. The truck driver may feel that they could get in trouble with their employer if they want to take the vehicle off the road. Nonetheless, it is a truck driver’s obligation to be the last line of defense against any mechanical issues causing a crash.

Distracted Driving

Truck drivers need to pay attention every second they are behind the wheel. They cannot take their eyes off the road for even an instant. Some truck drivers may try to multitask when they are driving by checking their phones and eating. Even a momentary distraction may keep the driver from doing something that they need to avoid a crash. For example, sending or reading a text could take the driver’s focus off the road for several seconds, even after they have put down their phone.

Excessive Tailgating

When you look in your rearview mirror and see a truck on your back bumper, the driver is already doing something wrong. When traveling at full speed, it can take nearly a tenth of a mile for a truck driver to bring the vehicle to a complete stop. Truck drivers should allow for adequate following distance between themselves and vehicles in front of them. Even a rear-end truck crash can cause serious injuries because of the amount of force involved.

Contact the Albuquerque Truck Crash Lawyers at Buchanan Law Firm, LLC for Help with Your Case

If you have been injured in a crash with a commercial vehicle, reach out to the Albuquerque truck crash lawyers at Buchanan Law Firm, LLC. Our truck crash lawyers take a tireless approach to every case, fighting for you to get every dollar that you deserve in compensation. You can schedule a free initial consultation with one of our attorneys by calling us today at 505-900-3559 or simply fill out our online contact form. Our office is located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and we serve clients in Santa Fe and the surrounding areas.