Common Causes of Tractor Trailer Accidents in Buffalo, NY

Tractor-Trailer Accidents in Buffalo, NY are increasing as the number of fatal crashes involving large tractor-trailers and buses increased by 1% in 2018, as compared to the previous year. These accidents are not only life-threatening for truck drivers, but they pose a great risk for cars, motorcyclists, bicyclists, and pedestrians as well. An average car weighs only 6.5% of the total weight of an average commercial tractor-trailer. These tractor-trailers are difficult to maneuver due to their size and weight, and in cases of accidents, other car or bike drivers face extreme injuries, and in most cases lose their lives.

Learning about the common causes of Tractor Trailer Accidents in Buffalo, NY, can help reduce the risk of these occurrences. Calamities can be avoided as drivers will be aware of the causes and can work towards preventing them. A few reasons are:

  1. Distracted Driving:

This is the most common reason for all kinds of automobile vehicle accidents. Tractor-trailer drivers tend to be on the road for long periods of time and get too comfortable behind the wheel. They may believe they can do other activities whilst driving, without having any problems as they have a lot of driving experience. Eating, texting, talking on the phone, etc. are the most common activities that distract drivers from the road and result in tragic accidents. 

  1. Drowsy Driving:

With being on the road for hours, it is common for the driver to get fatigued and find it difficult to focus on the road. Lack of sleep due to driving, sleeping disorders or medications, can result in life-threatening accidents. In most states, there is a specified number of hours that a driver is allowed to spend driving without resting or sleeping. If the driver violates these rules and continues driving, they will lose focus from the road and can cause fatal car and motorbike accidents. 

  1. Manufacturing Errors in the Tractor-Trailer:

In some cases, it may not be the driver’s fault, instead of the tractor trailer’s machinery itself. A manufacturing defect occurs when a specific product is not produced as anticipated and drifts apart from its real purpose. Mistakes that happen during the manufacturing of the trailer results in a great risk for everyone. Faulty brakes, steering wheel defects, tire failure, and missing lights or mirrors are common tractor-trailer defects that can result in deadly accidents. 

  1. Lack of Maintenance of the Truck:

Little to no maintenance of tractor-trailers can result in major problems on the road. Regular maintenance is necessary for all types of vehicles, especially those that stay on the road for long periods of time. Whether the driver or a company has the responsibility of maintaining the vehicles, it is of utmost importance to do so. They will be held liable for any damages caused to a third party because of this carelessness.

  1. Weather Conditions:

Compared to normal-sized cars, these large trailers are more difficult to control. Harsh weather conditions affect all kinds of vehicles and precautions. For instance, appropriate tires should be taken when driving in such conditions. Rain, fog, snow, or intense sun glare can make it difficult to drive and control the vehicle. If the driver is not used to driving in these conditions or drives aggressively, they only make the situation worse. 

  1. Impaired Driving:

Consuming alcohol or drugs is prohibited for drivers, especially commercial drivers who are tested randomly for alcohol and drugs to reduce driving under the influence. Unfortunately, many trailer drivers use over-the-counter medicines or other stimulants to stay awake while driving. These have side effects, and in some cases may make the driver too slow to drive safely.

Other causes include misjudging traffic and road conditions, over speeding, overtaking, and not staying in the appropriate lane can lead to dangerous car accidents. 

The best thing car drivers and motorcyclists can do is to always drive at a safe distance from tractor-trailers. Bearing these reasons in mind, and tackling them accordingly with one simple tactic could definitely reduce the number of collisions with tractor trailers.

What Victims Should Do if They Are Involved in Tractor Trailer Accidents in Buffalo, NY:

Being a victim of a tractor-trailer accident can be devastating and can result in various damages. You could face pain and suffering, medical costs, loss of wages, and emotional trauma. In case of a fatal accident, the damages will be incurred by the family. 

Tractor-trailer driver’s carelessness can result in high-risk incidents. Hiring a car accident lawyer in Buffalo can help you get all the necessary information for filing a compensation claim. They can also help with the paperwork and support you through every step of the process. If you have been involved in a Tractor-Trailer Accident in Buffalo, NY, Contact us today to get the compensation that you deserve.