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Trucking is a major industry in Charleston County, thanks to nearby port activity and multiple highways that run through the area. Truck wrecks have serious consequences, including serious injuries, fatalities, and property damage. Understanding the common causes of truck accidents can help injured individuals pursue compensation and hold negligent parties accountable.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking collision, it may help to understand the causes of these collisions. These facts can be helpful for anybody looking to recover after a trucking accident. We also encourage you to schedule a consultation with our semi-truck wreck attorneys to discuss your case.
The federal Hours of Service regulations are meant to help prevent driver fatigue by placing shift and driving limits on truck drivers. Fatigue is one of the most prominent causes of trucking accidents in Charleston County and nationwide. For example, a long-haul trucker may fail to rest properly and doze off on the highway, causing serious injuries (or even fatalities) to others on the road. This is not just the driver’s fault. Some companies may pressure drivers to meet unrealistic deadlines.
Commercial driver’s licenses have requirements, and shortcuts in training can lead to terrible accidents. Companies may be held liable for negligent hiring or training. When they let drivers work for the company without adequate training, they may be held responsible for the accidents that result.
Distracted driving does not involve just texting or talking on the phone. Drivers may be distracted while they are using a GPS, eating food, using a dispatch device, or even talking to a passenger. Distracted driving is much more dangerous with large commercial vehicles due to their size and delayed reaction times.
Reckless driving and speeding are also major causes of truck crashes in Charleston County. Large trucks require more stopping distance, and they are also harder to maneuver. Drivers may drive aggressively or speed while trying to meet delivery windows, prompting multi-vehicle collisions. Additionally, drivers may be unsafe on the road because they are using drugs or alcohol.
Improperly loading a trailer can prompt it to become overweight, unsecured, or unbalanced. Shifting cargo can cause rollover crashes or jackknifing, putting others at risk on the road. In these cases, the individuals in charge of loading the vehicle may be held responsible.
Additionally, commercial trucks are legally required to be properly maintained. Some of the most common issues that lead to truck collisions include brake failure, tire blowouts, and signal light failure. Companies are in charge of maintaining these trucks so they are safe to drive.
When accidents happen due to mechanical failure, improperly secured cargo, or poor maintenance, multiple parties may be liable—including the truck driver, the trucking company, cargo loaders, or maintenance providers. Tractor-trailer accident claims in Charleston County involve investigating the cause of the collision and identifying the responsible parties. An experienced attorney could investigate logbooks, black box data, maintenance records, and other data to determine fault.
Now that you have a better understanding of the common causes of truck accidents in Charleston County, it is time to reach out to a lawyer. Our dedicated professionals have experience handling these types of cases, and we are ready to assist you with your claim. If you have been injured in a truck crash, you deserve a strong legal team. Call our office today to schedule a consultation.