Many people have been injured or killed in truck accidents. Afterwards, people can face overwhelming medical costs, vehicular damages, lost wages, and psychological trauma. When the truck driver is found to be at fault, the injured party may be able to get compensation for their losses with the help of a dedicated truck accident attorney. Understanding the common causes of truck accidents in Marion can provide insight into how fault is assigned and what factors make a personal injury lawsuit more likely to succeed.
Common Truck Accident Causes
Truck drivers are held to a high standard of care when it comes to their responsibilities. They operate large, heavy vehicles with decreased visibility, which makes accidents more likely, even in the best conditions. When a driver fails to adhere to standards of care, they can make those dangerous outcomes even more likely.
The most common reasons for truck accidents in Marion are:
Driver Fatigue
Driving for long hours on end can cause fatigue and make it difficult for drivers to focus. Commercial truck drivers are therefore required to take extra precautions when it comes to the time they spend behind the wheel. Pursuant to Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations, drivers must take a minimum of 10 hours off between driving shifts and cannot drive for more than 14 consecutive hours without a break (49 CFR 395.3).
Failure to adhere to these standards can lead to poor decision-making, delayed reaction time, blurred vision, and lack of focus. In short, an exhausted driver is a dangerous driver, and truck drivers who fail to adhere to driving time requirements put themselves and others at risk.
Driver Distractions
There are many factors that can contribute to distracted driving, and truck drivers who spend hours on the road may be particularly susceptible to them. Using a cell phone, looking at video screens, logging information about their route, and eating while driving can all serve as distractions that take drivers’ eyes off the road or hands off the wheel.
A distracted driver who causes a crash may face liability for the resulting damages.
Environmental Factors
Even when a driver is attentive and focused, conditions outside the vehicle can increase the likelihood of an accident. Inclement weather (rain, sleet, fog, ice, wind, etc.), objects in the roadway, and traffic congestion can all create hazardous conditions in Marion that require a truck driver’s attention and adaptation. Failure to adapt to these conditions can leave a driver at fault for any resulting accidents.
Steps of a Truck Accident Lawsuit
When someone else’s breach of the standard of care results in an injury or death, a personal injury lawsuit may be appropriate, allowing the injured party to obtain compensation for their losses.
A truck accident lawsuit involves several steps. The process begins with an investigation into the Marion truck accident to determine the cause and identify the responsible party. After establishing fault, the plaintiff must present evidence of their losses. This is often followed by negotiations with the insurance company and a potential settlement offer. If the plaintiff accepts the offer, the case concludes—unless multiple parties share fault. If the offer is rejected, the case may proceed to trial, where a jury will evaluate the facts.
The plaintiff may then receive compensation for losses such as medical expenses, lost income, pain in performing daily activities, and vehicle repair costs.
Enlist the Help of a Marion Truck Accident Attorney to Help Determine Cause and Fault
The common causes of truck accidents in Marion include distracted driving, poor road conditions, and driver fatigue. If you have been injured in a truck accident, you may be able to get compensation for your losses.
The attorneys at Whetstone Perkins & Fulda are experienced and ready to answer questions about your case. Contact us today for your free consultation.
