Truck accidents happen far too often on Florida highways. They occur for a variety of reasons, but there are several causes that are very common when all material evidence is evaluated. Commercial truck driving is an intensive process that includes many potential opportunities for an accident ranging from improper loading by shipment contractors to mechanical failure on the truck itself. And this is not to mention accidents caused by drivers in standard passenger vehicles. The truck driver is not always at fault in a truck accident even though they are the first to be evaluated for their actions. And when they are found to be at fault, there are typically some common reasons.
Drowsy driving
It is a known fact that truckers are overworked even though they have specific driving hour restrictions. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has set both daily and monthly driving limits, but shipping companies often require drivers to meet that maximum due to a shortage of commercial drivers. This in turn contributes to the high number of commercial vehicle accidents on America’s highways.
Mechanical failure
Mechanical failure is also a common cause of truck accidents. The most common mechanical failure is torn tire treads, but issues with braking systems and drive trains can contribute to causation as well.
Shifted loads
Shifted loads on flatbeds or inside improperly loaded containers can result in truck accidents as well. Truck containers that are loaded in an imbalanced fashion are particularly susceptible to tipping over, and cargo loaded on flatbeds can work loose from anchoring equipment.
Of course, many truck accidents occur due to multiple reasons that often include driver error while in transit. And the requirements many shipping companies put on their employees can contribute to safety concerns as well.