Big trucks provide a valuable service to companies both big and small throughout the United States. They move tons of freight across the country every single day, contributing to the country’s economy and prosperity. These big trucks help New Jersey businesses profit as well. However, big trucks are frequently involved in accidents in New Jersey, as well as the rest of the country. When an accident involves a big truck, the results are often devastating. Big trucks may weigh up to 80,000 pounds, whereas a standard motor vehicle’s weight may hover around 4,000 pounds. Clearly, a car is no match for a big truck in an accident.
At a speed of around 55 miles per hour, it would take a big truck approximately 4 seconds to come to a complete stop. The truck could travel close to another 400 feet before it finally stopped. Of course, many trucks travel at speeds exceeding 55 miles per hour on the highway—meaning that they would take even longer to come to a complete stop.
There are many causes of truck accidents. Trucker fatigue is a major cause of these devastating crashes. Truck drivers work long hours and drive hundreds of miles every day. Truck drivers are often exhausted as they travel. Driver fatigue significantly reduces a driver’s reaction time. When coupled with the length of time it takes a truck to come to a complete stop, a delayed response to a stopped vehicle or a red light can be a deadly mistake.
Truck drivers may turn to illegal substances to help them stay awake—and, in a career that involves a lot of boredom and alone time—to help them pass the time. One study showed that the most commonly used drugs amongst truck drivers were cocaine and amphetamines. Frighteningly, these substances may cause hypertension, hallucinations, and agitation, which may contribute to truck accidents as well. Impaired driving is even more dangerous when the driver is behind the wheel of such a massive vehicle.
Distracted driving is a problem for drivers throughout the country. Many drivers have difficulty disconnecting from their phones while they drive. Truck drivers who text while driving are 23 times more likely to be involved in a serious incident. Distracted driving is such an issue that the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, which enacts many of the laws governing the activities of truck drivers, has created stricter rules that prohibit certain cell phone activities, such as texting or dialing. Even reaching for a phone is prohibited.
To avoid an accident with a truck driver, it is important to remain vigilant while driving. Remember to allow plenty of space between your vehicle and the truck in case the truck has to stop suddenly. Never cut a truck off in traffic and stay out of the truck’s blind spots. These practices will help you avoid a potentially deadly crash.
If you have been involved in a truck accident, contact our New Jersey truck accident lawyers today
At Lomurro Law, we understand the devastating impacts a truck accident may have on you and your loved ones. We ensure that all avenues of recovery are pursued so you obtain the compensation you deserve to heal. To schedule your free consultation with one of our experienced truck accident attorneys, call 732-482-9285 or contact us online.