Apr 18th, 2023
Paulozzi Joseph

In our work as a personal injury law firm, we have seen firsthand the devastating impact that semi-truck accidents can have on individuals and their families. These types of accidents can result in serious injuries, property damage, and even death. In this blog post, we will explore the top 8 causes of semi-truck accidents in Cleveland, OH.

Semi Truck Accident Data in the U.S.

Before we dive into the causes of semi accidents, let’s take a look at the data. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), there were 4,415 fatal crashes involving large trucks in 2018. Additionally, there were 107,000 injury crashes involving semi-trucks in 2017. These statistics highlight the severity and prevalence of semi-truck accidents in the U.S.

Main Factors That Contribute to Semi-Truck Accidents

Knowing why semi-truck accidents happen can help us to prevent them from happening. Here are the top 8 causes of semi-truck accidents:

Driver Error

Distracted driving, such as texting, eating, or adjusting the radio, can take a driver’s attention off the road and increase the risk of an accident.

Vehicle Braking Issues

Issues with the braking system can cause a semi truck to lose control and crash. This can happen if the brakes are not properly maintained or if there is a defect in the braking system.

Unfamiliar with Roads

Semi-truck drivers who are unfamiliar with the roads they are driving on may not know about upcoming hazards or turns. This can lead to accidents if the driver is not prepared for the road conditions.

Roadway Issues

Roadway issues, such as potholes, debris, and construction zones, can cause semi-truck accidents. These types of hazards can be difficult for semi trucks to navigate, especially at high speeds.

Driver Fatigue

A lack of sleep or rest breaks can cause a driver to become drowsy, impairing their judgment and reaction time. 

Pressure on Driver from Carrier to Complete Trips

Demanding schedules and unrealistic delivery expectations can cause drivers to push themselves beyond safe limits, resulting in accidents.

Weather Conditions

Bad weather conditions, such as rain, snow, and ice, can make it difficult for large truck drivers to control their vehicles. This can lead to accidents if drivers are not prepared for the weather conditions.

Improper Loading or Overloading

Overloading a semi-truck or unevenly distributing cargo can cause the vehicle to tip or jackknife, resulting in an accident.

Contact the Experts if You’ve Been in a Semi-Truck Accident in Cleveland

If you or a loved one has been involved in a semi-truck accident in Cleveland, OH, the best thing to do is to contact a personal injury lawyer with experience in handling these types of cases. 

At Paulozzi LPA, we have the expertise and resources to help you get the compensation you deserve for your injuries, lost wages, and other damages. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how we can help.

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