Tractor trailers and semi-trucks are an inevitable sight on roadways across the country. And, if you are unlucky enough to be involved in a crash with one of the large trucks, it can be quite scary. Like it or not, accidents involving large trucks happen and happen quite often. What causes these crashes? We offer a list of the common causes of these accidents in the following blog.

However, it's important to understand that semi-trucks, tractor trailers, delivery trucks and other large trucks are here to stay. So, we must co-exist as safely as possible on the road with these large vehicles. Being aware of the main reasons behind trucking accidents can make you more cautious and attentive when driving close to one.

If you are involved in an accident with a large truck in Connecticut, we strongly advise you to seek medical care, after which you should contact a CT truck accident lawyer to handle your case. Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law has helped countless truck accident victims in Connecticut. We can provide you with the legal support you need to reach a successful resolution in your case, especially if you need to sue a trucking company.

Main Causes For CT Truck Accidents

Driver Error

Since truck drivers are people, just like everyone else, they occasionally make mistakes. Truck drivers make common driver errors, such as:

• speeding
• making quick turns
• texting and driving
• drowsy driving
• aggressive driving
• tailgating

Give truck drivers plenty of space and remain out of their way if you see any warning signs that they are not operating their vehicle safely.

Vehicle Maintenance

Regardless of the type of vehicle—a large truck or regular compact car—everyone should maintain their cars on a regular basis. However, many trucking companies neglect to properly maintain their vehicles, which leads to avoidable collisions involving these vehicles. A vehicle with malfunctioning brakes is among the main causes for concern. Failing to have a safety issue fixed on a truck driver's vehicle might be lethal if the issue is driven with knowledge.

Weather Conditions

Any driver of the road may be at risk from bad weather conditions. Traveling on an icy road, or in a snowstorm can result in fatal accidents, especially for a truck driver and any other vehicles nearby. In bad weather, a truck driver losing control of the vehicle might result in a very serious accident.

Truck drivers must know when to pull over to the side of the road and wait until the road and weather are safe enough to resume driving when there are bad weather conditions. They also need to know how fast to go in order to prevent hydroplaning or jackknifing. Despite the risks, some truckers choose to drive during inclement weather.

How Often Do CT Truck Accidents Happen?

As long as trucks are used for freight transportation in Connecticut, there will be accidents. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, there was a 62% increase in injury crashes prior to 2015, and a nearly 50% increase in fatal crashes involving in the decade prior to 2018.

Although truck accidents in Connecticut can occur anywhere, statistics for semi-truck accidents indicate highways and rural areas are among the most common.

Connecticut's three highways most prone to large truck accidents are: Interstate 91, Interstate 95, and U.S. 6. According to a Patch story, there were 20 fatalities on each highway between 2015 and 2017.

Unfortunately, truck accident victims often suffer serious or fatal injuries. This is why it's important to consult an experienced truck accident lawyer to ensure you are compensated accordingly.

Brandon J. Broderick: Your CT Truck Accident Lawyer

Being in an unfortunate truck accident in Connecticut and being injured can be frustrating. Believe us when we say many of our clients come to us with many concerns, but we are here to help you address them.

Our truck accident lawyers are ready to assist you in seeking fair compensation for your accident. Our team at Brandon J. Broderick has years of experience, which will only benefit you in pursuing your case.

Contact us today to discuss your case and we will go over your options. There is no obligation to call. Schedule an appointment today.