Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Fullerton

Driving a tractor-trailer is a very different experience from driving a standard passenger car. However, this does not absolve truck drivers of any responsibility in the event of a collision. Like all road users, truckers have a duty of care toward other drivers and must act responsibly and lawfully at all times. Unfortunately, not every semi-truck driver fulfills this duty, and mistakes and accidents happen as a result.

While violations, such as speeding, running stop signs, and failure to yield, can contribute to commercial truck crashes, there are other common causes associated with this type of vehicle collision in Fullerton and throughout California.

Failure to Check Blind Spots

Every motor vehicle has blind spots that block the driver’s view of certain points around the vehicle. These blind spots are usually just beyond the front and rear bumpers as well as stretching diagonally out and back along both sides. For tractor-trailers, blind spots can block the driver’s view of entire vehicles. This means that a truck driver’s failure to check their blind spots before turning, merging, or changing lanes is an especially common cause of commercial truck wrecks in Fullerton.

Impairment from Alcohol or Extreme Fatigue

Impairment from alcohol or fatigue is a frequent cause of commercial truck collisions in Fullerton. In California, the limits for driving under the influence of alcohol are stricter for truck drivers than for drivers of passenger cars. However, it is still common for truckers to drive while impaired by alcohol. Furthermore, truck drivers are more susceptible to extreme physical fatigue. This may simply be due to their long working hours, but sometimes can be a result of their employers encouraging them to work longer hours than permitted by federal law.

Unstable or Overloaded Trailers

Another common cause of truck crashes in Fullerton is unstable or overloaded trailers. Overweight or insecure cargo can adversely affect a truck’s handling, potentially causing the driver to lose control of the vehicle. Sometimes, this is due to loads unexpectedly shifting during transit. But more often it stems from trucking companies violating federal law by knowingly overloading their trucks to save time and money.

Does Inexperience Contribute to Truck Crashes?

Sometimes, commercial vehicle crashes are the result of truckers being new to their jobs and lacking experience.  The primary cause of many accidents on slopes is a truck driver’s inexperience. This is most likely due to a semi-truck’s air brakes working differently both mechanically and practically from the brake pads of a standard passenger car.

Contact a Fullerton Attorney to Learn About the Common Causes of Truck Accidents

There are many common causes of truck accidents in Fullerton that could give you cause to file a lawsuit. Even if your accident was not the result of any of the causes discussed above, you may still have legal standing to demand comprehensive compensation for the harm you have sustained. Pursuing compensation for your damages, however, is not something you should attempt to do alone.

At CD Law, our experienced and compassionate truck accident lawyers could be the support you need to secure a favorable outcome from your legal proceedings. Call our office today to schedule a free initial consultation.