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According to a report from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration), injuries from truck accidents are on the rise. In 2012, truck accidents caused more than 104,000 injuries; 18% more than the previous year. An additional 3,921 people were killed in traffic accidents that involved large commercial trucks - 4% more than the number of fatalities in 2011.
Who is at risk?
Research suggests that passenger vehicle occupants account for the majority of car-truck accident injuries. In 2012, truck drivers only accounted for 24% of these injuries. Bicyclists, pedestrians, and other bystanders accounted for 3% of large truck accidents, while passenger vehicle occupants accounted for 73% of the injuries.
Truck Accident Fatalities in 2012
- Pedestrians, etc. – 10%
- Truck Occupants – 18%
- Vehicle Occupants – 73%
High Risk of Rear-End Accidents
In recent studies, the NHTSA also found that trucks are rear-ended by other vehicles three times more often than passenger cars. At first glance, this could indicate negligence on the part of the passenger vehicle driver, but this isn't necessarily the case. A variety of other factors can lead to rear-end accidents, including weather conditions and poorly lit tractor-trailers.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents
Truck accidents, like any traffic collision, are usually preventable. Weather conditions and sudden hazards (such as an animal or falling tree branch), can lead to unavoidable accidents, but most truck and car accidents are the result of careless or negligent drivers. Some common causes of truck accidents in the United States are:
- Inadequate Training
- Aggressive Driving
- Lack of Sleep
- Distracted Driving
If you or a member of your family was involved in a truck accident, you need a personal injury attorney who will fight for your best interest and the compensation that you deserve. At The Daspit Law Firm, we are committed to helping accident victims and their families recover money for medical expenses, doctor's visits, and noneconomic damages. Contact our office for a free, no-obligation evaluation of your case.