With New York City’s population of 8.6 million people, large tractor-trailer trucks and other commercial vehicles are essential for the delivery of goods that supply businesses and homes throughout the metro area. While truck drivers must stick to the New York City truck route network, that includes major roadways that see millions of travelers each day.
In 2016, 4,564 Americans died in the 4,079 crashes that involved semi-trucks and buses across the U.S. With the immense volume of traffic and commercial vehicles moving in an out of New York, drivers often face potential danger, especially during the winter. If you have been injured in a truck accident, a personal injury lawyer can help you get the compensation you deserve to pay for medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Here is a look at some of the leading causes of truck accidents, according to the Federal Motor Carrier Large Truck Crash and Causation Study:
Brake Failure
This is recognized as the leading cause of truck accidents among potential vehicle malfunctions. At 65 mph under ideal travel conditions, a semi can take 525 feet to stop, which is more than 200 feet longer than the distance required by a passenger vehicle. If an air brake leak is present due to insufficient maintenance, the results can be tragic.
Prescription Drug Use
This is the number one driver-related cause of truck collisions, and it is 37 times more likely than alcohol and 12 times more than illegal drugs. The trucking industry is not immune to the opioid problem in America. Because prescription medications rarely show up on a random drug screening, they are a popular choice among truckers.
Driving Too Fast for Conditions
A speeding truck driver can increase the likelihood and severity of a truck wreck. Because of the average semi stopping distance and inability to maneuver quickly, the danger goes up with every mile-per-hour a driver goes over the speed limit.
Other leading causes of truck crashes include driver fatigue, distracted driving, illegal driving maneuvers, aggressive driving, shifting cargo, and following too closely. In all of the reasons listed here, a skilled truck accident attorney can conduct a full investigation to prove negligence as part of a personal injury lawsuit against the trucking company, driver, and any parties whose improper loading or maintenance contributed to the crash.
Contact a NYC Personal Injury Lawyer
At Goldberg Sager & Associates, we are prepared to pursue a lawsuit to hold negligent parties accountable for your truck crash injuries. Contact a Brooklyn truck accident attorney at 718-645-6677 to schedule a free consultation.
Sources:
https://www.udot.utah.gov/trucksmart/motorist-home/stopping-distances/
https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safety/research-and-analysis/report-congress-large-truck-crash-causation-study
