Truck Accident Facts for Georgia Drivers

Truck accidents are a major contributor to injuries and deaths on roadways across the United States, and Georgia is no exception. These commercial trucks – known as big-rigs, semis, and tractor-trailers – make many drivers nervous, as their size and weight are reasonably formidable.

One of the best ways to reduce the likelihood of being involved in an auto accident with a commercial truck is to be aware of where these accidents are most likely to occur, common causes for truck accidents, and ways to stay safe while sharing the road.

Truck Accident Facts for Georgia Drivers

Here in Georgia, and especially around Metro Atlanta, commercial trucks are a common sight. Major roadways like Interstate 20, Interstate 85, and Highway 27 are frequent routes for commercial drivers. While traveling along any Georgia roadway, it is important to understand the nature of commercial trucks and how to stay safe.

Let’s take a look at some of the most important truck accident facts for Georgia drivers to help all of us be a little safer on Georgia roadways.

Truck Accident Statistics

In 2015, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) reported a total of 2,746,882 tractor-trailers registered throughout the U.S. These trucks traveled more than 279 billion miles in transport of manufactured products, building materials, hazardous materials, mail and packages, agricultural materials, and much more. How many of these trucks were involved in accidents? Let’s take a look:

Truck accidents may not occur as frequently as auto accidents involving only passenger cars, but they are more dangerous and catastrophic due to the nature of size, weight, and heavy loads often carried.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents

While tractor-trailers seem formidable due to their size and weight, there are numerous factors that contribute to truck accidents, including driver error, malfunctions, and other factors. Here are some of the most common causes of truck accidents:

Factors Related to the Driver:

Driver error or improper behavior while behind the wheel is one of the most common causes of truck accidents. Tractor-trailer drivers must be aware of their environment and surroundings at all times. Factors like road hazards or construction or poor weather conditions can all impact how drivers respond. The following are some of the most common factors that relate to a truck driver:

Factors Related to the Vehicle:

Commercial trucks are required to undergo routine inspection and maintenance. Failure to comply with regulations can result in potentially dangerous conditions. Some of the most common vehicle related factors that lead to truck accidents include:

Staying Safe While Sharing the Road

Now that we have discussed how frequently truck accidents occur, and the many factors that contribute to these accidents, we must consider the ways that drivers can stay safe while sharing the road with large trucks. Here are some tips to help drivers stay safe and hopefully avoid being involved in a truck accident:

Getting Help after a Truck Accident

If you or someone you love has been injured in a truck accident, you may find it helpful to contact our Atlanta truck accident lawyer to learn more about protecting your legal rights. Contact The Dixon Firm to find out more about your legal rights and how to get compensation for your injuries.