2 Shocking Negligent Behaviors That Can Cause A Serious Tractor Trailer Accident

Drivers who rely on passenger vehicles and motorcycles might be intimidated when they have to drive alongside semi-trailers. They may get nervous because of the size of these "big rigs." Most drivers are aware that vehicles that are involved in truck accidents usually sustain significant damage. There are sometimes fatalities, and at other times, individuals live but have lifelong injuries that might interfere with their ability to work or enjoy life. 

Many times, tractor trailer accidents are the result of negligent truck driver behaviors. Injury victims may be entitled to compensation when this occurs. If an accident occurs that results in a fatality, the trucker might face prosecution. The surviving family of the victim could be entitled to compensation for their loss. Here are a few types of negligent behaviors truck drivers may exhibit that can lead to accidents.

Driving Under the Influence

There are cases where drivers consume an excess amount of caffeine. This can cause agitation and make them have road rage, which could lead to an accident. Many drivers have odd driving hours and may resort to stimulants to keep them awake. Some of them may also consume alcohol to go to sleep. If their consumption of these substances causes an accident, a truck accident lawyer could use the evidence as proof of negligence.

Fatigue

Truck drivers are required to keep a logbook, which provides details of their route. Fatigue is most common with drivers who are long-distance drivers. These drivers are aware of the laws regarding rest breaks. However, some of them may attempt to bend the rules if they fear being late for deliveries. There are also drivers who use a portion of their breaks to sightsee or fraternize. The lack of sleep will inevitably present itself in some form of fatigue. This can result in them falling asleep while driving. They might also miss important traffic warnings or make driver errors. These negligent behaviors can cause serious tractor trailer accidents involving one or more passenger vehicles.

A tractor trailer accident lawyer is a good resource for victims and their families to use. Despite the seriousness of these accidents, many insurance companies want to settle them expeditiously. They may offer hundreds of thousands or millions of dollars to distressed victims or their families. The issue with these settlements is that they may not account for all of the losses experienced. Insurance companies may not consider lifelong complexities such as permanent disability. Lawyers can negotiate settlements on behalf of their clients.

Contact a tractor trailer accident lawyer for more information.