Sharing the road with massive semi-trucks can be intimidating. While these behemoths are crucial for transporting goods across the country, their size and weight pose a significant risk in the event of an accident. If you’ve been involved in a collision with a semi-truck in Indiana, understanding the common causes can help you navigate the legal process and potentially seek compensation for your injuries.

This blog post explores the five most frequent causes of semi-truck accidents in Indiana:

1. Truck Driver Error
2. Failing to Maintain Trucks
3. Improperly Loaded Cargo
4. Defective Parts
5. Dangerous Road Conditions

1. Truck Driver Error

Human error is a leading cause of accidents across the board, and semi-truck accidents are no exception. Truck drivers face unique challenges, including long hours, fatigue, and demanding schedules. Here are some specific examples of driver error that can lead to accidents:

• Speeding: Exceeding the speed limit is a major risk factor, especially considering the extended stopping distances required for large trucks.
• Distracted Driving: Activities like texting, talking on the phone, or eating while driving can create dangerous distractions.
• Driving Under the Influence (DUI): Operating a semi-truck while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is incredibly dangerous and illegal.
• Fatigue: Long hours on the road can lead to fatigue and drowsy driving, impairing judgment and reaction time.
• Improper Lane Changes: Large trucks require more space to maneuver, and improper lane changes can lead to collisions with other vehicles.
• Following Too Closely: Tailgating a semi-truck significantly reduces your reaction time in the event of a sudden stop.

2. Failing to Maintain Trucks

Regular maintenance is vital to ensure a semi-truck is operating safely. When trucking companies fail to maintain their vehicles properly, it can lead to catastrophic accidents. Examples of inadequate maintenance include:

• Faulty Brakes: Worn or malfunctioning brakes can significantly increase a truck’s stopping distance, leading to rear-end collisions.
• Tire Issues: Underinflated, worn, or damaged tires can increase the risk of blowouts, which can cause the driver to lose control.
• Steering System Problems: Malfunctions in the steering system can make it difficult for the driver to control the truck, leading to swerving or loss of control.
• Lighting Issues: Inoperable or malfunctioning headlights, taillights, and turn signals can significantly reduce visibility and increase the risk of nighttime accidents.

3. Improperly Loaded Cargo

The way cargo is loaded onto a semi-truck is crucial for safety. Improper loading can cause the cargo to shift during transport, leading to:

• Rollover Accidents: If the cargo is not evenly distributed or improperly secured, it can cause the truck to tip over, especially when making turns.
• Shifting Cargo: Unsecured cargo can move around during transport, potentially falling onto the roadway and creating a hazard for other vehicles.
• Weight Distribution Issues: Overloaded trucks or uneven weight distribution can affect handling and stopping distance, increasing the risk of an accident.

4. Defective Parts

Sometimes, accidents are caused by mechanical failures beyond the control of the driver or trucking company. Defective parts on a semi-truck can lead to accidents, such as:

• Brake System Defects: Malfunctioning brakes due to faulty components can significantly reduce stopping power and cause a collision.
• Tire Defects: Manufacturing defects in tires can lead to sudden blowouts, which can cause the driver to lose control.
• Steering System Defects: Defective parts in the steering system can make it difficult to control the truck, potentially leading to a collision.

5. Dangerous Road Conditions

Weather and road conditions can also play a role in semi-truck accidents. Here are some ways that dangerous road conditions can contribute to accidents:

• Inclement Weather: Rain, snow, fog, and icy roads can all significantly reduce visibility and make it difficult for drivers to control their vehicles.
• Poor Road Design: Narrow lanes, inadequate shoulders, and blind curves can all increase the risk of accidents involving semi-trucks.
• Construction Zones: Construction zones can be confusing and congested, potentially leading to accidents if drivers are not cautious.

If You’ve Been Injured in a Semi-Truck Accident

If you’ve been involved in a collision with a semi-truck in Indiana, it’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately, regardless of the severity of your injuries. Then, contact an experienced semi-truck accident lawyer who can investigate the cause of the accident and help you recover the compensation you deserve.

Habig Injury Law has a proven track record of representing clients injured in semi-truck accidents. Our experienced attorneys will fight tirelessly to protect your rights and seek maximum compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Contact Habig Injury Law today for a free consultation.