115,000. That’s the amount of 18 wheeler accidents that occurred in 2010 alone. Of these accidents, over 3,250 of them involved one or more fatalities, and over 44,000 resulted in serious injuries. While it is easy to grow numb in the face of such staggering statistics, we must remember that these aren’t just numbers. These numbers represent individual human lives. These were lives that have been put at risk and cut tragically short. While not all 18 wheeler accidents are a direct result of careless driving, many of them fall into the category of negligence. Why is negligent driving such a problem in the trucking world? If you’re ready to help, the Aranda Law Firm is ready to help.
How Time Affects Truck Drivers
Large trucks – including 18 wheelers, semi-trucks, and tractor trailers – can weigh more than 10,000 pounds. That is a significant amount of weight, and driving a large truck requires a high level of attentiveness and responsibility. Many truck drivers understand this, and they pay heed to the rules and drive cautiously to avoid accidents. In some cases, however, truck drivers succumb to the unfair expectations that trucking companies place on them to save time.
In our fast paced, money-driven world, truck drivers are under a lot of pressure to be efficient with their time. But when the pressure to meet quotas and save time causes truck drivers to drive a little too fast, go a little too long without sleeping, or switch lanes without proper clearance, the results can be fatal. The problem with the belief “Time is Money” is that it elevates money above responsibility and caution. Money is temporary and can always be replenished, but humans only have so much time to live. And when someone’s time on Earth is cut short due to the pressure to make money—when a human life is lost because proper precautions are not taken—that is an incredible tragedy.
The Problem with Negligence
According to the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration), over 30 percent of 18 wheeler crashes involved some type of driver negligence or error. Driver error includes faults such as speeding, distracted driving, and failure to yield the right of way to other drivers. Many 18 wheeler accidents also stem from improper lane changes and turns. While all vehicles have blind spots, large trucks have significant blind spots that the driver must account for with cautious driving practices. Even the smallest amount of negligence or the slightest error can lead to a severe accident when 18 wheelers are concerned.
18 Wheeler Accidents in Texas
cThis is largely due to the pressure trucking companies place on truck drivers. At Aranda Law Firm, we represent the victims of 18 wheeler accidents. We fight for recompense and ultimately fight for change. If you are the victim of a truck accident and are in need of an 18 wheeler accident attorney, don’t hesitate. Contact our office today.
