Accidents involving 18-wheelers in San Antonio are some of the most dangerous accidents on the road. When a smaller vehicle, such as a car or truck, is involved in an accident with an 18-wheeler they are more likely to suffer from serious injury or even death. This is because of the significant size and weight difference between a semi-truck and smaller vehicles. 18-wheelers can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, while the average vehicle weighs between 3,500 to 6,000 pounds.
With that in mind, it is imperative that San Antonio drivers be vigilant on the roads and exercise caution when near an 18-wheeler. One way to protect themselves is to be informed about the most common causes of 18-wheeler accidents.
Excessive speed is a common cause of 18-wheeler accidents in San Antonio. When drivers exceed the speed limit or fail to appropriately adjust their speed according to road or weather conditions, they increase the risk of losing control of their vehicle, which can cause devastating collisions.
Mechanical failures like brake malfunctions or tire blowouts can significantly impact the safety of 18-wheelers and other vehicles on the road around them. Improper maintenance and failure to promptly address potential issues can contribute to the cause of accidents involving semi-trucks in San Antonio.
Distractions like texting, talking on the phone, eating, or adjusting controls divert the driver’s attention from the road. Distracted driving can reduce reaction times, increasing the chances of causing a serious accident.
Drivers often spend long hours on the road, which can cause them to be fatigued. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has regulations on how long drivers can drive, and how long they must rest between driving stretches. However, if drivers or truck companies fail to adhere to these regulations, drivers can experience fatigue which impairs judgment, slows reaction time, and increases the likelihood of accidents occurring.
Driving under the influence is illegal for drivers operating any sort of vehicle, but it is especially important for 18-wheeler drivers to drive sober. Operating a semi-truck under the influence of drugs or alcohol is extremely dangerous as impaired judgment, reduced coordination, and slowed reflexes can cause devastating accidents.
San Antonio experiences a wide range of weather conditions throughout the year including heavy rain, dense fog, and sometimes ice. These conditions can reduce tire traction and driver’s visibility, which makes it increasingly challenging for 18-wheeler drivers to maneuver the roads safely. Accidents are more prone to occur when drivers fail to adjust their driving to the weather conditions appropriately.
Trucking companies are responsible for ensuring their vehicles are properly maintained and that their drivers are adequately trained and supervised. When companies behave negligently, by pressuring drivers to meet unrealistic deadlines or to cut corners on safety protocols, they increase the chances of accidents and jeopardize public safety on San Antonio roads.
If you’ve been injured in an accident with an 18-wheeler, contact a San Antonio personal injury attorney for legal guidance.
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