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Truck accidents are among the most devastating types of accidents on the road. The impact of a collision with a large commercial truck can cause severe damage to both property and human life.
The aftermath of such accidents can be complicated, and victims often struggle to get the justice they deserve. However, our team is here to help you navigate the process and get the compensation you are entitled to. One of the most challenging aspects of a truck accident case is determining who is responsible for the damages caused by the accident. We understand what evidence is needed to prove your claim and how to gather it effectively. Our firm will work tirelessly to investigate your accident thoroughly.
Call The Queenan Law Firm, P.C. at (817) 476-1797 to speak with our Dallas truck accident lawyers and get a free case evaluation.
Common Reasons Truck Accidents Happen in Mesquite, TX
Truck accidents in Mesquite present a complex challenge that often involves numerous factors. Fortunately, our truck accident lawyers can help you recover compensation no matter how your accident was caused. We know that the cause usually points to the liable party. The following are common causes of truck accidents in Mesquite:
Driver Fatigue
Driver fatigue has long been recognized as a significant safety concern in the trucking industry. It is a contributing factor in the majority of heavy truck accidents. Fatigue might result from inadequate sleep, extended work hours, and strenuous activities, both work-related and personal.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration established hours of service regulations to combat this issue, setting limits on the amount of time drivers can operate their vehicles without rest. Despite these regulations, compliance and enforcement remain challenging, and driver fatigue continues to be a major cause of accidents.
Speeding
Speeding is another leading cause of truck accidents. Trucks’ larger mass and size mean they need more distance to come to a complete stop than passenger vehicles. When truck drivers exceed speed limits, their ability to react to road conditions or traffic changes is significantly compromised. Speeding not only increases the likelihood of accidents but also the severity of those accidents.
Distracted Driving
In today’s digital age, distracted driving has emerged as a critical road safety issue. Truck drivers are not immune to the temptations of using smartphones, navigation systems, and other electronic devices while driving. Distractions take a driver’s attention away from the road, reducing their reaction time and awareness of hazards.
The FMCSA has instituted regulations prohibiting commercial drivers from texting and using handheld mobile phones while operating their vehicles. Despite these measures, distracted driving remains a prevalent problem contributing to accidents.
Running Traffic Signals
Running traffic signals is a dangerous traffic violation that significantly increases the risk of cross-traffic collisions. These types of accidents are particularly hazardous when involving heavy trucks, given their inability to stop quickly. Running red lights or ignoring stop signs can lead to side-impact collisions, often resulting in severe injuries or fatalities.
Improper Lane Changes
Improper lane changes by truck drivers can lead to accidents because of the blind spots around large commercial vehicles. Trucks have significantly larger blind spots than passenger cars, making it difficult for drivers to see other vehicles during lane changes.
Drivers need to be aware of these “No-Zones” and signal well in advance of changing lanes to give other motorists time to react. Despite the availability of this guidance, improper lane changes continue to be a cause of accidents, highlighting the importance of training and vigilance in preventing these incidents.
Defective Truck Parts
The integrity of a truck’s components is crucial to its safe operation. Defective truck parts, ranging from steering mechanisms and brakes to lighting and engine components, can significantly increase the risk of accidents. For instance, poor ball joints, which are integral to the steering system, can lead to loss of control if they are worn or damaged.
Similarly, transmission or engine failure can cause a truck to unexpectedly stop or lose power, creating dangerous situations on highways and roads. The responsibility to identify and rectify these defects falls on both manufacturers and trucking companies. Regular inspections and maintenance are essential to prevent accidents caused by defective parts.
Negligent Truck Maintenance
Routine inspections and maintenance are non-negotiable aspects of trucking operations. Negligent maintenance practices can lead to critical failures of essential systems such as brakes, tires, and lights. Given the size and weight of commercial trucks, the consequences of such negligence can be catastrophic.
Trucking companies and operators have a legal obligation to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy. Failure to adhere to maintenance protocols not only endangers the lives of truck drivers but also other road users.
Negligently Stored Cargo
The way cargo is stored and secured in a truck plays a significant role in road safety. Improperly stored or secured cargo can shift during transit, causing imbalances that might lead to jackknifing or rollovers.
Furthermore, falling cargo presents a direct hazard to other vehicles. Ensuring cargo is correctly loaded and secured is a fundamental aspect of trucking operations, requiring adherence to strict guidelines and regulations. Negligence in this area is a common cause of truck-related accidents, underscoring the need for diligence and professionalism in cargo handling.
Negligent Hiring Practices
The process of hiring qualified and competent truck drivers is critical to ensuring the safety of commercial transport operations. Negligent hiring practices, such as failing to conduct thorough background checks or ignoring a candidate’s history of traffic violations, can lead to placing unqualified or unsafe drivers behind the wheel.
The implications of such negligence are profound, as drivers with a history of reckless behavior or insufficient training are more likely to be involved in accidents. Trucking companies must prioritize safety by implementing rigorous hiring standards and continuous training programs.
Driving Under the Influence
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a pervasive issue across all vehicle types, including commercial trucks. The effects of substance impairment, including reduced reaction times, impaired judgment, and decreased motor coordination, make driving under the influence a leading cause of accidents.
For commercial truck drivers who operate large and complex vehicles, the risks are even greater. Strict regulations and zero-tolerance policies are in place to combat this issue, yet incidents of DUI among truck drivers continue to occur.
How Long You Have to File a Truck Accident Lawsuit in Mesquite, TX
In Mesquite, the statute of limitations for truck accidents sets the time limit to file a lawsuit. According to Tex. Civ. Prac & Rem. Code § 16.003, the deadline is generally two years from the date of the accident.
This means that if you have been involved in a truck accident, you have two years from the day of the incident to initiate legal proceedings against those responsible for your injuries or damages. This deadline is critical. Failing to file within this period typically results in the loss of your right to seek compensation through the court system, regardless of the merits of your case.
Our Mesquite, TX Truck Accident Lawyers Can Help
For a free case review with our truck accident attorneys, contact The Queenan Law Firm, P.C. at (817) 476-1797.