Causes of Truck Driver Negligence: Truck Accidents in Southern California

Millions of large commercial trucks travel through Southern California roads regularly. These vehicles often serve as a trusted emissary for our nation’s economy and in 2019, the trucking industry transported nearly 12 billion tons of freight across the nation. In the same year, the industry generated nearly $800 billion in revenue.

The trucking industry is responsible for transporting roughly 80 percent of our nation’s cargo, and with more trucks on roads and highways than ever before, the frequency of traffic accidents involving these vehicles has skyrocketed. According to a report published online by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) accidents involving large commercial trucks rose by 31 percent between 2009 and 2019.

Obtain the Representation You Deserve

When a large commercial truck collides with a smaller vehicle, the consequences can be devastating for those traveling in the smaller vehicle. After a truck accident, injured victims may be eligible for monetary compensation if the accident was caused by another’s negligence. Unfortunately, proving a case against the negligent party can be extremely complicated in truck accident cases. If you or someone you love was recently hurt in a truck accident, take immediate action and seek representation from an attorney who is well-established in handling these types of cases.

For more than a decade, the Law Offices of Attorney Justin H. King has represented injured truck accident victims who suffered injuries and economic losses as a result of the accident. Exceptionally skilled in these complex cases, the Law Offices of Attorney Justin H. King are equipped with the resources needed to win the highest compensation available. To schedule a complimentary consultation, contact the Law Offices of Attorney Justin H. King today by completing a confidential form here.

Common Causes of Truck Driver Negligence

In order to recover sufficient compensation after a serious truck accident, it is necessary to uncover how the terrible accident happened. Truck drivers, trucking companies, and associated parties can be much more likely to offer a higher settlement if the injury case is strong. To build a strong case, it is necessary to demonstrate exactly how the negligent party caused the accident. When it comes to truck accidents caused by truck drivers, the following is a short list of actions that can represent negligence on behalf of the trucker.

Intoxication

Like all other drivers in the State of California, commercial truck drivers cannot drive their vehicles while under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol. Contrary to regular motorists, drivers who hold a commercial driver’s license cannot have a Blood Alcohol Concentration level of 0.04% or more.

Unfortunately, truck accidents are sometimes caused by intoxication. A trucker who is under the influence can experience a delayed reaction time and blurred vision.

Exhaustion

Driving exhaustion and boredom is oftentimes inevitable when it comes to driving for long periods of time. Truck drivers are often overworked and they are sometimes forced to drive for hours without a break. Exhaustion while behind the wheel of a large commercial truck is extremely dangerous and it is the cause of many serious accidents each year.

Lack of Skill or Training

Truck drivers have to undergo extensive training to operate the large vehicle. They must also be properly licensed and maintain this license for as long as they wish to operate the vehicle. Sadly, many truck accidents happen because the truck driver lacked the sufficient skills or training to operate the massive vehicle.

Speeding

Truck drivers can sometimes feel rushed when they have to meet certain delivery deadlines. A fully loaded large commercial truck, however, can be the cause of a serious accident when the trucker is speeding. A heavy truck can be difficult to maneuver and stopping in time can be impossible when the trucker is speeding.

Driver Distractions

It is very easy for a truck driver to become distracted while driving. Drivers have to do whatever they can to avoid getting bored and they can sometimes resort to looking at their cellphones, work logs, or equipment in the vehicle. When traveling, a large truck can travel a great length in a matter of seconds. A trucker who takes his or her eyes off the road for even 2 seconds can cause a tragic accident.

Proving Negligence is No Easy Task

Truck accidents have the potential to cause devastating injuries that can require extensive medical treatment. An injured victim can quickly accumulate costly hospital bills and suffer other economic hardships as a result of the accident. Since a truck accident can result in long-term affliction, it is necessary to pursue a truck accident injury case to obtain needed compensation. To successfully prove a case, it is necessary to demonstrate the following in a claim: The trucker owed the victim a duty of care; The trucker failed to meet the duty of care; The trucker’s negligence directly caused the accident; The accident resulted in the victim’s injuries and economic losses.

Speak to a Professional Truck Accident Attorney Today

Suffering a collision caused by a negligent or reckless trucker can be devastating. If you or someone you love was recently involved in a large trucking accident, it is possible that the resulting injuries will last a lifetime. Filing a truck accident claim can provide necessary compensation that can help pay for the expenses resulting from the accident. Unfortunately, negligent parties will rarely assume responsibility for their actions and will do all that is possible to avoid paying a fair settlement. Consequently, it is necessary to seek the legal advice and support of a skilled attorney who has experience in handling complex truck accident cases.

For more than a decade, the Law Offices of Attorney Justin H. King has championed on behalf of those severely injured in truck accident cases. Large commercial trucks are flooding the roads and highways of Southern California and while these vehicles are invaluable to our economy, they are dangerous when involved in an accident with smaller passenger vehicles. A truck accident that has been caused by negligence cannot be overlooked – discuss your case with the Law Offices of Attorney Justin H. King to begin building a strong case today. Consider completing the online contact form here.