Trucking Negligence: I Can't Believe They Hired That Guy

Due to the massive size and weight of large trucks, trucking accidents are some of the most devastating accidents imaginable. Consequently, trucking negligence is one of the most inexcusable causes of trucking accidents. Trucking companies who routinely operate large vehicles and know the risks well are charged with conducting business as safely as possible. This includes maintaining stringent operator guidelines.

Truck Driver Negligence

If a large truck operator acts in a negligent manner, the consequences can be catastrophic, both in terms of physical life and monetary cost. A person in control of a vehicle weighing upward of 80,000 pounds must place the highest focus on caution and safety. If a driver allows his or herself to become distracted or impaired in any way, serious, even fatal, accidents can happen. Here are some common causes of truck drivers becoming negligent in their driving duties:

• Fatigue – Truck drivers must adhere to strict guidelines that regulate the hours of driving and rest. However, undue pressure to meet deadlines can cause an operator to drive longer than safely possible.
• Speeding – Large trucks accelerate, decelerate, and maneuver differently than smaller vehicles, and are more difficult to control at higher speeds.
• Improper Lane Changes – A truck’s size makes visibility a problem, which can cause difficulty when changing lanes. Proper caution and vigilance must be used to change lanes safely.
• Lack of Proper Training – Training to handle a large truck with heavy loads is important, and periodic retraining is necessary. An untrained driver is a menace to everyone.
• Aggressive Driving – Tight deadlines may put pressure on operators to drive more aggressively in order to stay competitive. This can take the form of driving too closely to other vehicles, speeding, and taking other dangerous chances.
• Alcohol, Prescription or Illegal Drugs – Any sensory impairment while operating a large truck is totally inexcusable. However, the pressure of business or time constraints may entice some drivers to use medication and other drugs in order to stay awake while driving, or sleeping pills to rest. The effects of such substances may still have an effect when the driver awakens to resume driving.
• Texting or Talking on the Phone – This is a serious breach of federal transportation laws, which absolutely prohibit operators from communicating on handheld devices while driving.

Large truck operators who are found to be negligent in these or other areas can be held criminally liable for any injuries and damages they cause in an accident. Moreover, if such driver negligence can be connected to any pressures or practices from a trucking company, the company can also be held responsible for negligence.

We Can Help Prove Trucking Negligence

The experienced attorneys of Edwards and Patterson Law have handled numerous cases involving accidents caused by trucking negligence. We know the records to subpoena and have connections with quality investigators who can work with us to prove driver negligence. If you or a loved one have been in an accident involving a large truck and believe driver negligence was involved, contact us right away. Time is of the essence when investigating accidents that involve driver and trucking company records.

Edwards and Patterson Law is pleased to serve and protect the good citizens of McAlester, Tulsa and eastern Oklahoma in the event of an accident, even those involving large trucks. Call us today for a free consultation at 877-403-8417.