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How Many Accidents Are Caused By 18-Wheelers?

Saturday, May 30th, 2020
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18-wheelers often weigh 20 – 30 times more than a normal car, truck, or SUV. As a result, an accident with a semi can be extremely dangerous. We will look at some statistics to understand how frequently these accidents occur. There are also many factors that can make this type of crash more likely to happen. Knowing these risk factors can possibly help to not become part of the statistic.

The frequency of 18-wheeler accidents

The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) claims that most deaths in 18-wheeler accidents are occupants in passenger vehicles. They also note that in 2018, 4,136 people died in wrecks involving large trucks. This number is much higher for those that are only injured but survive.

Risk factors of 18-wheeler accidents

Below are some of the highest risk factors involving an 18-wheeler accident. From driving while fatigued to the time of day, it’s best to know the different variables for this type of wreck.

Driving while tired

Unfortunately, commercial truck drivers are under a lot of pressure to transport products quickly and efficiently. This means longer work hours, which means less sleep. The FMCSA has tried to combat this issue by creating a set of regulations for truck drivers to follow. These regulations limit the amount of time behind the wheel and require rest breaks. Driving while tired is also a risk for those in cars. If you are feeling fatigued, find a place to rest before going out on the road.

Mechanical defects

From steering wheel defects to tire and brake issues, mechanical defects of commercial trucks are some of the highest risk factors.

Not enough training

18-wheelers are massive and can be difficult to maneuver. If companies haven’t provided enough training to an inexperienced truck driver, the results could be disastrous.

Distraction and inattention

This is a factor for any wreck. Drivers of cars and commercial trucks need to stay aware and alert at all times while on the road.

Day of the week and time of day

You would think that the weekend would be when most large truck crashes happened, but actually it was weekdays. Also, according to statistics, the most common time of day in which an 18-wheeler accident occurred was between noon and 3 PM.

Time needed to stop

Commercial trucks need longer time to brake effectively. For example, a car that is traveling at about 40 mph will take about 124 ft to come to a full stop. An 18-wheeler traveling at the same speed and then braking will come to a complete stop at about 169 ft. The faster that the car or semi is going, the longer it will take to stop. This is why it’s important to keep a good amount of distance between your vehicle and an 18-wheeler.

Were you in an 18-wheeler accident?

If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident, Attorney Dean Boyd and his Team are here for you. You can call us at (806) 242-3333 or Contact Us via email. You can also speak with us in person by visiting 4423 SW 45th Ave in Amarillo, Texas or 10623 Quaker Ave #102 in Lubbock, Texas. We want to help you get the compensation that you deserve.

*The content on this website is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as legal advice. Viewing this information does not establish/constitute an attorney-client relationship with the law firm of Attorney Dean Boyd.