Due to their size and weight, commercial trucks are among the most deadly and destructive accidents on the road. Fully loaded, a tractor-trailer may weigh up to 80,000 lbs. This is 20-30 times heavier than the average passenger car. A collision with a tractor-trailer can result in severe injuries and even fatalities.
Underride collisions are a unique risk that truck accidents pose. Underride collisions occur when a passenger car collides with a tractor-trailer’s side or rear and slides underneath the truck. This can result in serious injuries or even death for the passengers of the smaller vehicle. Studies have shown that underride accidents are responsible for a large percentage of truck accident fatalities.
Rollovers are another danger that truck accidents pose. Commercial trucks, with their high center-of-gravity and weight distribution, are more likely to roll over during a collision or sudden maneuver. Rollover accidents may result in serious injuries or even death for both the driver of the truck and other drivers on the road.
The size and weight make it difficult for commercial trucks to maneuver in tight spaces, or during adverse weather conditions. The increased weight and size of commercial trucks can also make them more difficult to maneuver, especially in tight spaces or adverse weather conditions.
Truck accidents can also lead to spillages of hazardous materials or cargo, which could cause further injury, damage, and possibly even death. Commercial trucks also carry explosive or flammable materials that can cause fires or explosions in an accident.
Driver fatigue is another major factor in truck accidents. Truck drivers can become fatigued due to long hours spent on the road, strict delivery schedules and pressure from the trucking company. Fatigued driving affects a driver’s ability to react quickly, make decisions, and operate a truck safely.
Truck accidents are unique in their dangers because of the weight, size and characteristics that commercial trucks possess. Truck accidents are often caused by underride collisions and rollovers. Jackknife accidents can also be a factor. To prevent truck accidents, it is important to be aware of the dangers, avoid distractions on the road and ensure that drivers are well-rested and follow all safety regulations.