Top 7 Bad Driving Habits: Dangerous Practices by Truck Drivers
Driving a large commercial vehicle takes the utmost concentration. Drivers must operate these vehicles without distraction, aggression, or arrogance. To become a commercial truck driver, you must pass further testing and certification. This prevents just anyone from becoming a commercial truck driver. This screening helps to weed out any bad drivers who may more easily cause truck accidents by partaking in bad habits while behind the wheel. Statistics On Truck Accidents In 2019 there were 4,119 fatalities due to truck accidents. 67% of those fatalities were passengers or drivers of regular non-commercial vehicles. Another 15% were pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists. Finally, 16% were truck drivers and occupants. Aside from fatalities, there are approximately 130,000 people that suffer from injuries each year, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, whiplash, neck injuries, and more. Dangerous Truck Driving Habits Unsafely Changing Lanes Changing lanes is dangerous no matter what in a large commercial vehicle. Semi-trucks have large blind spots that obscure passenger cars from their view. A truck driver that changes lanes too quickly or without checking its blindspots vigilantly could cause an accident. Lane hopping is a bad driving habit that involves quickly weaving in and out of lanes to pass...
Truck Accident Statistics That You May Find Shocking
The commercial trucking industry is responsible for delivering 71% of all freight in the United States annually. On top of that, this $700 billion industry is also responsible for employing 5% of all full-time employees. While the trucking industry is the backbone of delivery systems, commercial trucks also pose a variety of dangers to other people on the roads, including passenger vehicle occupants, pedestrians, motorcyclists, and cyclists. Because large trucks have a higher gross vehicle weight when compared to passenger vehicles, crashes involving large trucks are often devastating or fatal. Passenger vehicles simply cannot withstand the intense impact of a commercial truck, leaving those involve seriously wounded or dead. Statistics On Accidents Involving Commercial Trucks Depending on the state, commercial truck accidents may be more or less common. In rural areas with a less dense population, accidents may be more common. However, in cities and more densely packed areas, truck accidents may actually occur less frequently. U.s. Truck Accident Statistics In the United States, truck accidents accounted for 10% of all vehicles involved in fatal crashes in 2019. They also accounted for 4% of all registered vehicles, and 7% of total vehicle miles traveled. In the same year, just over...
Regulations That Make Commercial Trucking Safer
Truck drivers and the companies they work for have strict regulations to keep everyone safe. Like anything, driving a commercial truck comes with a set of rules and regulations. These regulations are set to keep everyone on the road safe, including the driver and other cars. Driving a commercial truck is different from driving a car. Commercial trucks have to abide by all the rules of the road, while also following their own specific set of rules. A commercial truck can weigh as much as 30,000 pounds, so it’s important that these rules are followed. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, “Most deaths in large truck crashes are passenger vehicle occupants.” In 2018, 4,136 people died in commercial truck accidents. 67% of those people were passenger vehicle occupants. Understanding Trucking Regulations Impaired Driving Prevention There’s a lot to understand when it comes to trucking regulations. There are many things that drivers need to know before getting behind the wheel of a car. Like passenger cars, impaired driving can be a large problem in the trucking community. However, there is a regulation in place to prevent impaired driving. Federal Regulation 49 C.F.R. § 382 covers impaired driving as well...
Exploring the Technology That Could Help Prevent Truck Accidents in the Future
Summary Truck accident technology may eventually help save thousands of lives. Advances such as collision avoidance systems, vehicle-to-vehicle communication, and automatic emergency braking systems can significantly reduce collisions. Unfortunately, it may be years before trucking companies fully deploy these and other technological tools to reduce accidents. Truck accident attorneys investigate wrecks to gather evidence and use that evidence to convince insurers to offer fair compensation to accident victims. Truck accident technology promises innovative solutions to prevent accidents and mitigate risks on the road. From advanced safety systems to cutting-edge communication networks, a host of technological advancements hold the potential to revolutionize the trucking industry and enhance roadway safety for all. In this article, you’ll learn about the technology that could help save thousands of lives. Unfortunately, that technology won’t eliminate truck accidents anytime soon. If you’ve suffered an injury in a wreck that wasn’t your fault, Sand Law truck accident attorneys will be here to answer all your questions and help you obtain the compensation you deserve. Contact us online or call 651-291-7263 for a free consultation. Collision Avoidance Systems Can Help Reduce Truck Accidents One promising area of truck accident technology includes advanced safety systems designed to detect and...
FAQ About Truck Accidents in Minnesota
Summary Minnesota truck accident victims often have several questions in the aftermath of a wreck. A skilled truck accident attorney will answer your questions and work to help you obtain maximum compensation. Trucking companies as well as truck drivers can face liability for negligence leading to an accident. Truck accidents can be devastating, and victims often find themselves grappling with numerous questions in the aftermath. The consequences of a truck accident can range from some burns to major amputations. Understanding the legal landscape surrounding truck accidents in Minnesota is crucial for those seeking compensation and justice. The attorneys with Sand Law would like to share the answers to some frequently asked questions regarding Minnesota truck accidents. If you want more information on how we can help you get the money you deserve, please call 651-291-7263 or use our online contact form to schedule a free case review. What should I do immediately after a truck accident in Minnesota? Prioritizing safety and preserving evidence must be your top priorities. Ensure everyone's well-being, seek medical attention, and gather evidence of the incident, including the truck driver's details, witness contact information, and accident scene photos. What are some common causes of truck accidents?...
Modern Safety Innovations that Prevent Truck Accidents
Truck safety on our roads is critical, affecting not only the well-being of individuals but also the economic health of our communities. With the rapid advancement of technology, there has been a notable surge in innovations designed to prevent truck accidents. Talented engineers and other professionals designed this impressive technology to reduce the alarming statistics associated with truck-related accidents. However, as incredible as these safety features are,people still die or suffer severe injuries in truck accidents. If this has happened to you or someone you love, Sand Law attorneys are standing by to help. We’ll do everything possible to ensure fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Please use our online form or call 651-291-7263 for a free case review. The Need For Safety Innovations Truck-related accidents continue to plague our roads, exacting a heavy toll on human lives and the economy. There were 5,700 fatal large truck accidents in 2021 – a nearly 50% increase from 2011. These accidents accounted for 9% of all fatal motor vehicle accidents in the U.S. The numbers are just as bad in Minnesota. There were 4,120 crashes involving trucks in our state in 2021. They resulted in...
The Risks of Fatigued Driving
Fatigued driving is a significant risk factor for motor vehicle accidents and is a leading cause of severe injuries and fatalities on the road. When drivers operate vehicles while exhausted or sleep-deprived, their ability to focus, react quickly, and make sound decisions becomes impaired. This impairment can lead to devastating consequences, not only for the fatigued driver but also for other road users. In this article, the attorneys with Sand Law will share information on the risks of fatigued driving, why it happens, and much more. If you or a loved one suffered an injury in an accident caused by another motorist’s fatigued driving, please get in touch with us as soon as possible for a free consultation. You can call 651-291-7263 or use our online form. Fatigued Driving Fatigued driving, also known as drowsy driving, is a dangerous behavior in which a driver operates a vehicle while feeling excessively tired, drowsy, or sleep-deprived. This state of exhaustion can significantly impair a driver’s cognitive and physical abilities, making them less alert and reactive on the road. The effects of fatigue on driving can be likened to those of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, as both can lead...
Mistakes to Avoid When Settling a Minnesota Truck Accident Case
The attorneys with Sand Law have years of experience representing clients injured in truck accidents. We know how easy it is for accident victims to make mistakes that cost them tens – or even hundreds – of thousands of dollars. This article will spell out some of the more common ones. When you turn to our firm, we’ll help you avoid these pitfalls that could cost you dearly. If you would like to schedule a free evaluation of your truck accident case, please contact us online or call 651-291-7263. Not Following Through On Medical Treatment After a truck accident, it’s important to prioritize your health and seek immediate medical attention. Even if you believe you’re okay, it’s essential to see a doctor so they can perform a detailed medical evaluation. There are many kinds of injuries where symptoms aren’t apparent for hours – or even a few days – after an accident. For example, someone with a soft tissue injury or whiplash might not know just how badly they’ve been hurt. By seeking medical treatment, you create a documented record of your injuries, which can strengthen your case. Following through on recommended medical treatment is equally important. If you fail...
Do Semi-Trucks Still Have Black Boxes?
When it comes to truck accidents, one crucial tool that investigators can use to determine the cause of the accident is the so-called “black box,” also known as an electronic control module (ECM). Black boxes are also sometimes called event data recorders (EDRs) or electronic control modules (ECMs). Airplanes have used black boxes for decades. But in recent years, they’ve also become standard in many large trucks. The following is a look at what black boxes are, how they work, and whether or not semi-trucks still use them. A Sand Law attorney will use black box data and other evidence when investigating the truck accident that led to your injury. If you want to learn more about how we can help you get the money you deserve, contact us online or call 651-291-7263 for a free consultation. What Is A Black Box? A black box is an electronic device that records information about the truck’s operation. This information can include speed, acceleration, braking, and engine performance, among other things. Investigators often use black boxes to determine the cause of accidents. By analyzing the data stored in the black box, investigators can often determine: How fast the vehicle was traveling at...
The Lasting Consequences of a Truck Accident Injury
Truck accidents can cause significant injuries that can have lifelong consequences. The lasting consequences of a truck accident injury may include physical pain, debilitation, emotional trauma, and financial hardship. If you’ve suffered a terrible injury in a truck accident caused by another’s negligence, you must understand the lasting consequences of your injury and your legal rights to compensation. A truck accident attorney with Sand Law will fight for your rights and do everything we can to help you obtain maximum compensation. Please don’t hesitate to schedule a free consultation by calling 651-291-7263 or contacting us online. Types Of Injuries Caused By Truck Accidents Truck accidents can cause devastating injuries that can lead to decades of misery and rob a victim of their ability to do the things they love. Some common injuries resulting from truck accidents include the following: Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): TBIs often occur due to a sudden jolt or blow to the head. These injuries can cause headaches, confusion, memory loss, and other cognitive problems. Spinal cord injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can be severe and cause paralysis. Victims may experience a loss of sensation, muscle weakness, and other neurological problems that can last decades. Broken...