Truck accidents in Alabama can have severe consequences, and understanding their common causes is vital for improving road safety. While driver error is a significant factor, it’s not the only cause. Addressing issues like vehicle maintenance, weather conditions, and aggressive driving is also essential for reducing accidents. Recognizing these factors enhances safety awareness for all road users in Alabama. Shelnutt & Varner fight for the rights of truck accident victims and secure fair compensation for their injuries and losses.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents: At a Glance
- Driver fatigue, distracted driving, and speeding are leading causes of truck accidents in Alabama.
- Improper loading, poor vehicle maintenance, and equipment failure can lead to dangerous situations on the road.
- Weather conditions and aggressive driving behaviors significantly increase the risk of truck crashes.
- Understanding these causes helps improve safety awareness and supports stronger legal claims if injured.
- Shelnutt & Varner, Attorneys at Law, offer expert representation for truck accident victims across Alabama.
Truck accidents can have devastating consequences on Alabama roads. We will examine the top factors contributing to truck accidents in Alabama, shedding light on the risks faced by both truck drivers and other motorists.
Know Your Rights: Truck Accidents in Alabama
Need Legal Help From Gadsden Attorneys After a Truck Accident?
In Alabama, truck accident victims have unique legal rights due to the state’s strict contributory negligence laws and the complex dynamics of truck accidents involving commercial motor vehicles.
These include:
- The right to prompt medical care and evidence preservation after a collision, whether caused by distracted driving or poor directional control.
- The right to legal representation without upfront fees, as most truck accident attorneys work on a contingency basis.
- The right to pursue compensation for serious injuries and property damage from motor vehicle crashes involving large trucks.
- The right to hold all liable parties accountable, including trucking companies and other drivers.
- The right to file your claim within two years of the accident date to avoid statute limitations.
Contact our dedicated team at (256) 547-4988 for a free consultation to discuss your specific case and secure the compensation you deserve.
Ten Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Alabama
Understanding common causes of truck accidents is essential for improving road safety. Here are ten steps to recognize these factors:
Cause #1: Driver Fatigue
Driver fatigue remains a major cause of truck accidents as long hours on the road diminish alertness and reaction times. Even experienced drivers can suffer from fatigue, making it a critical factor in motor vehicle crashes.
Cause #2: Identify Distracted Driving
Distracted driving, including the use of mobile devices or eating while behind the wheel, poses a significant risk. This common cause of truck accidents jeopardizes the safety of truck drivers, other vehicles, and passenger cars alike.
Cause #3: Speeding
Speeding drastically reduces a truck driver’s ability to respond to sudden traffic situations, contributing to many truck accidents. High speeds increase the severity of collisions and limit the time a driver has to react to unexpected obstacles.
Cause #4: Improper Loading
Cargo shifts due to improper loading can destabilize a commercial vehicle and lead to catastrophic incidents. Trucking companies must secure proper load distribution to prevent balance issues that frequently result in serious injuries.
Cause #5: Poor Vehicle Maintenance
Neglecting regular maintenance, such as checking worn tires and faulty brakes, can lead to preventable truck accidents. Routine inspections are essential for maintaining the reliability of commercial trucks and reducing the risk of equipment failure.
Cause #6: Drunk or Impaired Driving
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs dramatically compromises a truck driver’s ability to control their vehicle, often resulting in fatal crashes. Strict enforcement of federal regulations is vital to curb accidents caused by impaired driving.
Cause #7: Aggressive Driving Behaviors
Aggressive driving, including tailgating and unsafe lane changes, is a significant contributor to dangerous situations on the road. Such behaviors not only heighten the risk of collisions with other vehicles but also violate basic traffic control guidelines.
Cause #8: Poor Weather Conditions
Adverse weather conditions like heavy rain, fog, or icy roads are major factors that lead to truck accidents. These elements can impair visibility and road traction, making even skilled driver training less effective in preventing collisions.
Cause #9: Inadequate Training
Insufficient driver training, particularly among new truck drivers, often results in poor directional control and error-prone decision-making. Comprehensive driver training programs are essential to equip drivers with the skills needed to navigate challenging traffic situations.
Cause #10: Equipment Failure
Equipment malfunctions, such as brake failures or tire blowouts, can lead to sudden loss of control and severe truck crashes. Maintaining strict safety standards for commercial motor vehicles is important to mitigate accidents caused by equipment failure.
Immediate Steps to Protect Your Claim
Here’s what to do if you’re involved in a truck accident:
- Call 911 and seek medical attention: Prompt evaluation is essential after motor vehicle crashes.
- Document the scene: Take photos, gather witness information, and note traffic conditions and weather conditions.
- Avoid discussing fault with other drivers or insurance representatives: Protect yourself from inadvertent admissions.
- Contact our experienced Gadsden attorneys: We offer a free consultation to help you pursue fair compensation.
- Preserve all accident-related evidence: This is important, especially when distracted driving or driver fatigue played a role in the crash.
Call us at (256) 547-4988 or contact us online today for a free case evaluation to receive maximum compensation after your truck accident.
Our Truck Accident Victory Settlements
At Shelnutt & Varner, Attorneys at Law, we are proud of our record in resolving complex truck accident cases. Our team has secured fair settlements for victims of large truck crashes by addressing common causes of truck accidents, such as driver error, worn tires, and poor directional control.
Consider some of our recent victories:
- Six-figure settlement against company owner for negligent truck maintenance leading to employee accident.
- Six-figure settlement secured for client injured after colliding with commercial vehicle’s rear tires during improper turn.
- Wrongful death settlement against van driver who fell asleep at the wheel, crossed the centerline, and fatally struck another vehicle. The investigation showed the driver was up all night and then fell asleep.
These victories demonstrate our commitment to obtaining fair settlements for our clients.
Contact Shelnutt & Varner for Truck Accident Representation
Our experienced team understands the complexities of truck accident cases and is dedicated to fighting for your rights.
Don’t face the aftermath of a truck accident alone. Reach out to our Alabama legal experts today:
- Phone: (256) 547-4988
- Free Case Evaluation: Click here to schedule your consultation
- Email: receptionist@shelnuttlawfirm.com
- Address: 517 Broad St, Gadsden, AL 35901
Truck Accident Causes in Alabama | FAQs
What is the most common cause of truck accidents?
Truck accidents occur because of distracted driving and are often cited as the most common cause of crashes, with drivers frequently using mobile devices or failing to monitor their surroundings. Driver fatigue also plays a significant role, especially during long hauls, contributing to impaired judgment and reaction times.
What is the most frequent type of vehicle accident in the trucking industry in AL?
In Alabama, rear-end collisions are among the most frequent types of vehicle accidents in the trucking industry. These crashes typically occur when truck drivers, often due to fatigue or distraction, fail to maintain a safe following distance from other vehicles.
What is the cause of most crashes involving large trucks?
Most crashes involving large trucks in Alabama result from driver error, including distracted driving and driver fatigue, that leads to poor directional control. Additionally, inadequate maintenance and mechanical failures can contribute to these serious incidents.
Where can I find Gadsden attorneys in Alabama?
Shelnutt & Varner, located at 517 Broad St, Gadsden, AL 35901, provides exceptional legal representation for truck accident victims throughout Alabama. To get in touch, call (256) 547-4988 or contact us here.
