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Have you been injured in a truck accident? Calvert Law Firm can help you get fair compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and more. Call us for a free case review today.

At the Calvert Law Firm, our Oklahoma City truck accident lawyers  know how devastating truck accidents can be. Truck accident cases often involve numerous factors, including multiple liable parties, trucking industry regulations, and more.

Whether the truck accident is a result of driver error, mechanical failure, or poor road conditions, identifying the root causes of these accidents is crucial for seeking justice and securing the compensation you deserve.

Here we will explore the most prevalent causes of truck accidents in our city, providing insight into how these factors can impact your case. Our goal is to help you understand the complexities of truck accident claims and to ensure that you have the knowledge and resources needed to navigate the legal process effectively.



Drowsy Driving

Drowsy driving, also known as fatigued driving, occurs when a driver operates a vehicle while significantly impaired by lack of sleep or extreme tiredness. This state of fatigue can severely impact a driver’s ability to remain alert, make sound judgments, and react quickly to changing road conditions.

For truck drivers, who often work long hours and manage demanding schedules, drowsy driving is a particularly critical issue. Fatigue can diminish reaction times, impair decision-making, and reduce overall driving performance, making it a leading contributor to truck accidents.

Drowsy driving plays a significant role in truck accidents. Fatigue impairs a driver’s cognitive and motor skills, similar to the effects of alcohol consumption. Drowsy truck drivers may experience slowed reaction times, reduced concentration, and impaired judgment, increasing the risk of collisions.

In many cases, drivers may not even realize they are too tired to drive safely, leading to a dangerous situation on the road. Statistics reveal that drowsy driving is a major factor in truck accidents, with fatigued drivers more likely to fall asleep at the wheel, causing catastrophic accidents that can result in severe injuries or fatalities.

To address the dangers of drowsy driving, federal regulations impose strict requirements on truck drivers to ensure they are well-rested and fit to drive. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration enforces Hours of Service rules, which limit the number of driving hours and mandate rest breaks to prevent fatigue.

For example, truck drivers are required to take a 30-minute break after eight hours of driving and must not exceed a maximum of 11 driving hours within a 14-hour workday. Additionally, the FMCSA regulates the total number of hours a driver can work each week to prevent chronic fatigue. These regulations aim to keep truck drivers alert and reduce the risk of drowsy driving accidents.

To stay safe and mitigate the risks associated with drowsy driving, both truck drivers and other road users need to be aware of the signs of fatigue and take preventive measures. Truck drivers should adhere to HOS regulations, prioritize regular rest breaks, and avoid driving if they are feeling excessively tired. It is also crucial for drivers to get adequate sleep before embarking on long journeys and to recognize the symptoms of fatigue, such as yawning, difficulty focusing, and frequent lane drifting.

For other road users, staying vigilant and avoiding distractions can help them respond more effectively if a drowsy truck driver presents a hazard on the road. By understanding and addressing the risks of drowsy driving, we can work towards safer roads and reduce the occurrence of truck accidents caused by fatigue.

Improper Passing

Changing lanes improperly can be exceedingly dangerous, particularly involving large trucks on busy highways. Changing lanes requires careful coordination and awareness to ensure it is done safely. When a driver fails to signal their intentions, misjudges the distance between vehicles, or attempts a lane change in a high-traffic situation, the risk of a collision increases dramatically. For truck drivers, whose vehicles are much larger and have larger blind spots compared to passenger cars, these risks are amplified. An improper lane change by a truck driver can result in severe accidents due to the truck’s size and momentum, which can significantly impact surrounding vehicles. One of the primary dangers of improper lane changes is the potential for side-swipe collisions. When a truck driver attempts to change lanes without adequate clearance, they can inadvertently collide with another vehicle in the adjacent lane. Given the size and weight of trucks, these side-swipe accidents can be particularly catastrophic, often leading to severe injuries or fatalities. The force of impact from a large truck can push smaller vehicles off the road or cause them to spin out of control, further exacerbating the risk of secondary collisions with other vehicles or obstacles. Additionally, improper lane changes can lead to rear-end collisions if a truck driver suddenly merges into traffic without allowing sufficient space for other vehicles to adjust. This type of accident occurs when a truck cuts off another vehicle, forcing it to brake abruptly to avoid a collision. In high-speed scenarios, the reduced reaction time and braking distance can make it nearly impossible for following vehicles to stop in time, leading to rear-end crashes. Such accidents are especially dangerous when they involve multiple vehicles, increasing the likelihood of serious injuries and extensive property damage. To prevent these types of accidents, truck drivers must adhere to strict regulations and best practices for lane changes. This includes using turn signals well in advance, checking mirrors and blind spots thoroughly, and ensuring there is adequate space before moving into another lane. Defensive driving techniques and continuous vigilance are essential for safely navigating lane changes, particularly in congested traffic conditions. For other road users, remaining aware of the behavior of large trucks and maintaining a safe following distance can help mitigate the risks associated with improper lane changes. By promoting safe driving practices and adhering to proper lane change procedures, we can reduce the incidence of serious truck accidents caused by lane change errors.

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Inexperienced Truck Drivers

Experience is critically important for truck drivers, as it significantly impacts their ability to handle the complex and often hazardous conditions of the road. Experienced drivers possess a deep understanding of vehicle handling, traffic patterns, and the nuances of long-distance travel. They are adept at managing various driving challenges, such as navigating through inclement weather, handling large blind spots, and executing safe lane changes. This experience equips them with the skills necessary to anticipate potential hazards and respond effectively, minimizing the risk of accidents and ensuring a safer driving environment for everyone on the road. Conversely, drivers who are new to the trucking industry often face a steep learning curve and are more prone to making critical errors. Inexperienced drivers may struggle with the intricacies of operating a large truck, including managing its size and weight, understanding its braking distances, and effectively navigating tight turns and intersections. Their lack of familiarity with the vehicle’s blind spots and the complexities of merging onto highways can lead to dangerous situations. Moreover, new drivers may not yet have developed the defensive driving skills necessary to handle unexpected road conditions or aggressive driving behaviors from other motorists. The risks associated with inexperience are compounded when new drivers attempt to handle challenging scenarios without fully understanding the implications. For example, they might misjudge the safe distance required for lane changes, fail to adjust their driving speed appropriately in adverse weather conditions or become overwhelmed by the demands of long-haul driving. These mistakes can have serious, and even fatal, consequences. In the trucking industry, where safety is paramount, inexperience can lead to accidents that result in severe injuries, fatalities, and significant property damage. Ensuring that truck drivers are properly licensed, well-trained and have sufficient experience before they take to the road is crucial for preventing serious incidents. Rigorous training programs and practical experience are essential for developing the skills and judgment needed to navigate the complexities of trucking safely. Employers and regulatory agencies must prioritize the thorough evaluation and ongoing education of truck drivers to reduce the likelihood of accidents caused by inexperience and to maintain high safety standards on the road.

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Need Help? Call the Calvert Law Firm Today

At the Calvert Law Firm, we are committed to providing exceptional legal representation for those affected by truck accidents in Oklahoma City. Our experienced team understands the complexities of trucking regulations and the various challenges that arise in these cases. We are dedicated to thoroughly investigating each case, holding responsible parties accountable, and securing the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses. Your well-being and justice are our top priorities, and we work tirelessly to ensure that your case is handled with the utmost care and expertise.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident, don’t wait to seek the legal guidance you need. Contact the Calvert Law Firm  today by calling 405-848-5000 to schedule a free consultation with one of our knowledgeable attorneys. We are here to answer your questions, assess your case, and guide you through the legal process every step of the way. Call us now to take the first step towards obtaining the justice and compensation you deserve.

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