The most obvious factor in a truck accident is the size and weight of the tractor-trailer. This makes the vehicle more challenging to maneuver, more susceptible to being blown around during high winds and more difficult to bring to a stop quickly. Truck drivers must keep their attention on the road and upcoming traffic conditions and also ensure that they have left a clear distance ahead of the vehicle in front of them in case a sudden stop or slow down is needed.
Most commercial drivers are skilled and undergo many hours of training and supervised driving time before obtaining their licenses. However, there will always be some truck drivers who are not adequately prepared for all that is entailed in driving a tractor-trailer. Drivers must have enough training on the mechanics of driving the truck, proper safety precautions and techniques and how to assess traffic conditions quickly and adjust accordingly.
Whatever the reason for the accident, victims should understand what their legal options are for filing a personal injury suit against any at-fault party, whether that is the driver or a trucking company. There are certain requirements that must be met to file a personal injury suit. A Massachusetts attorney can help victims understand how those requirements affect their cases.
Source: FindLaw, “Common Causes of Truck Accidents” Oct. 27, 2014