Usually, road accidents have multiple causation. Since substance abuse is on top of the list of possible causes, trucking companies screen drivers for alcohol and substance abuse before hiring them. The catastrophic damage characterizing accidents involving big rigs set them apart from a typical road mishap. If you intend to work as a truck driver, you must know about the risks involved.
Driver error as a cause of big rig mishaps
Aside from substance abuse, the top causes of trucking mishaps are driver error and driver fatigue. Equipment trouble and severe weather are worth mentioning, but the performance of a driver figure significantly in the safe transit of trucks along American highways. For this reason, drivers are required by law to log their hours. Regulations state that a rest of 34 hours is required before a driver rolls out again. A driver who is performing multiple tasks in a state of fatigue is prone to making errors. It takes only one mistake to cause a speeding truck to be out of control.
A growing concern involving multiple parties
Every year, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration records an increasing number of fatal crashes involving big rigs. The total number of large trucks figuring in accidents that involve loss of life and destruction of property are numbered in the thousands every year. Thousands more are included in the tally of road mishaps that result in injuries.
Usually, a big rig accident involves multiple parties, particularly with commercial trucking fleets. Answering the question of who bears maximum responsibility is the burden of a court of law. A driver who finds himself dealing with the aftermath of a road crash should seek legal advice from a trucking accident injury attorney in Denver. The experience and proficiency of a lawyer can be the determining factor in the outcome of a case.
Immediate action in the event of a road mishap
If you have decided to earn a livelihood as a commercial truck driver, it is imperative that you prepare yourself for any eventuality. The reality of becoming involved in an accident should neither dim your perspective nor distract you from the requirements of your job. Instead, you must go beyond being aware of the risk and be ready to act wisely and vigilantly should an unfortunate event occur.
Should you find yourself in the midst of a big rig mishap, call the police immediately. Law enforcement agents can help secure medical assistance for anyone who has sustained injury. Moreover, their report of the accident is an important reference for court proceedings that may arise later on. It is also important to remember to stay on the scene, prioritize getting medical attention, and say little until a lawyer arrives to ensure that your rights are protected at all times.
Driving a truck for a living is a good way to earn a livelihood. It may be a risky line of work, but it can also be very rewarding. You must always be aware of immediate measures in the event of an accident.