What are the Most Common Causes of Commercial Truck Accidents in North Carolina? 

At Dewey, Ramsay & Hunt, P.A., our Charlotte attorneys know that North Carolina commercial vehicle accidents can result from various factors, and they often have severe consequences due to the size and weight of trucks involved.

Here, we discuss some of the most common types of commercial truck accidents and how we can help those who suffer catastrophic injuries in these often tragic crashes.

Common Causes of North Carolina Commercial Truck Accidents

Investigating the specific causes of a commercial truck accident in North Carolina is crucial for determining liability and establishing the basis for legal action.

Some of the most common causes of these accidents include:

• Driver Fatigue

Fatigue is a significant issue in the trucking industry. Long hours on the road, tight schedules, and insufficient rest breaks — or worse, violating federal Hours of Service Regulations — can contribute to driver fatigue, impairing a truck driver’s ability to react quickly and make sound decisions.

• Impaired Driving

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is dangerous for any driver. Still, it poses an even greater risk when operating a large commercial vehicle weighing up to 80,000 pounds.

• Distracted Driving

Distractions, like using a mobile phone, eating, or adjusting the radio, can divert a truck driver’s attention from the road, leading to accidents.

• Speeding

Excessive speed is a frequent contributing factor in truck accidents. Trucks require longer stopping distances, and high speeds reduce the time a driver has to react to unexpected situations.

• Inadequate Following Distance

Because commercial trucks require a longer stopping distance than smaller vehicles, failure to maintain a safe following distance can result in rear-end collisions.

• Inadequate Training

Truck drivers must undergo proper training to operate commercial vehicles safely. Inadequate training can lead to errors in judgment, improper handling of the truck, and an increased risk of accidents.

• Improper Loading or Cargo Securement

Incorrectly loaded or insecurely fastened cargo can lead to shifting loads and cargo spills, causing the truck to become unstable and increasing the risk of accidents.

• Equipment Failure

Mechanical failures, like brake malfunctions, tire blowouts, steering or transmission defects, and any other truck components issues, can contribute to accidents. Regular maintenance and inspections are crucial to prevent these failures.

• Weather Conditions

Adverse weather conditions like rain or fog can make driving more challenging. Truck drivers must adjust their driving behavior to the weather conditions to avoid accidents.

• Poor Road Conditions

Uneven road surfaces, potholes, or construction zones can contribute to accidents, especially if the driver is not adequately prepared or the road is poorly maintained.

Contact Our Commercial Truck Accidents Lawyer at Dewey, Ramsay & Hunt, P.A

If you were injured or lost a loved one in a commercial vehicle collision caused by negligence in North Carolina, our personal injury attorneys in Charlotte at Dewey, Ramsay & Hunt want to hear your story during a free consultation by calling 704-377-3737 or contacting us online.

We provide unique legal services tailored to each client’s needs and do not get paid unless you do.

Your Injury, Our Fight. How can we help you take a stand?

Because every case is different, the description of awards and cases previously managed by our law firm does not guarantee a similar outcome in current or future cases.