Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Los Angeles

Los Angeles County boasts nearly 1,200 miles of highways, with thousands more extending into neighboring regions, making it a critical transportation hub for the nation. The heavy flow of semi-trucks through the area significantly increases the risk of accidents, posing a serious threat to drivers on these busy roadways.

Not only is the risk of an accident high, but the risk of serious injuries is high, as well. The size and weight of trucks mean that collisions often lead to catastrophic injuries. Knowing the common causes of truck accidents in Los Angeles can help you avoid some of those outcomes.

If you or someone you love has been in a truck accident, a commercial vehicle wreck attorney from CD Law could help you determine what steps to take next.

Driver Fatigue

Drowsy driving contributes to many Los Angeles truck wrecks. Truckers log hundreds—sometimes even thousands—of miles behind the wheel each week. Federal regulations limit how many hours a trucker can drive. However, it can still be challenging for them to get enough sleep. Plus, deadlines and pressure to deliver goods can lead to truckers violating those rules. A tired driver is less alert, has slower reaction times, and is more likely to make mistakes.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is a massive problem for every type of motorist and causes many LA truck accidents. Texting, eating, or adjusting a GPS are just some of the things that can take a trucker’s focus off the road. While daily commuters can avoid many of these distractions, truckers may be more tempted to multitask while behind the wheel for long stretches of time.

Speeding

Excessive speed is always dangerous, no matter the size of someone’s vehicle. Trucks are even more dangerous when they are going too fast because the greater mass of these vehicles increases the force in a wreck. Plus, speeding increases stopping distance, making it more difficult for truckers to avoid crashes.

While truckers know these risks, speeding is still a common cause of LA truck wrecks. Truckers are on tight schedules. They might speed to meet their deadlines or to stay with traffic on LA’s hectic roadways.

Blind Spots

Since they are so much higher than passenger vehicles, many people think semi trucks have better visibility. However, in many instances, the opposite is true. Trucks have large blind spots on all sides. Truckers risk colliding with nearby vehicles if they fail to check these areas before changing lanes or turning.

Third-Party Causes of Truck Wrecks

Not every common cause of truck wrecks in Los Angeles is due to driver error. Sometimes, a third party has some responsibility.

Cargo Loaders

Trucks carry heavy and often uneven loads. If a truck’s cargo is not loaded or secured correctly, it can shift during transit. Shifting cargo can increase the risk of jackknife accidents, rollovers, and other dangerous conditions. It can also lead to losing cargo, which can contribute to wrecks.

Truck Manufacturers and Mechanics

Trucks are large vehicles that require constant maintenance. Failure to maintain them increases the risk of equipment-related accidents. Manufacturing defects can also lead to mechanical failure.

Trucking Companies

Negligent practices by trucking companies themselves can also cause wrecks. Sometimes, trucking companies pressure drivers to break laws to increase profit margins. Other examples of negligence include poor training or failure to perform necessary checks on new hires.

Speak to a Los Angeles Lawyer About the Causes of Truck Accidents

Truck accidents can take a significant toll on your finances, emotions, and physical well-being. Navigating the fight for the compensation you deserve can feel overwhelming.

At CD Law, we can help you understand the common causes of truck accidents in Los Angeles. Understanding what happened is the first step towards justice. Schedule a consultation to learn more.