Accidents involving vehicles always have the potential to be serious, especially when such an event involves larger vehicles like trucks. However, regardless of whether a crash occurs on the highway or a suburban street, there are always aspects that factor into why it happens.
If you or someone you love has been in a car accident, specifically a trucking accident, reach out to a truck accident lawyer in Calgary today.
Arguably in most, if not all cases, vehicle crashes can be prevented. These situations typically arise due to a lot of common factors that, if addressed beforehand, could save lives. To help you understand and make sense of them all, they’re described in detail below:
1. Speeding.
All of us have been guilty of speeding now and then. But when it comes to big commercial trucks or even buses, doing so can be fatal. This is more of an issue when it comes to delivery trucks. Our society is fast-paced; immediate service and same-day shipping have become staples that a lot of people expect. This can put serious pressure on transportation workers to deliver packages no matter what the weather and road conditions are like.
2. Braking problems.
Whether you’re an avid watcher of the news or not, you’ve most likely heard of the many vehicles recalls that occur. Manufacturing issues like faulty repairs and cheaply made parts can lead to brake and engine problems. In fact, according to data gathered by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance or CVSA, approximately every 1 in 6 trucks had problems with their braking systems.
3. Alcohol and Drugs.
This isn’t a surprise. After all, there’s a reason why organizations like MADD have remained prevalent. Substances like alcohol and drugs can alter our perception and interfere with our critical thinking and decision-making skills. Furthermore, with laws restricting the selling and use of certain drugs like marijuana becoming laxer, especially here in Canada, people have more access to these substances. Not to mention the fact that long-haul truck drivers are known to take other energy-boosting pills so they can drive for longer periods without needing a rest.
4. Driving fatigue.
This is a huge problem for drivers of all ages, regardless of the kind of vehicle they’re driving. Too long working hours, stress, and not eating or sleeping enough are just a few examples of things that can cause chronic fatigue.
5. Pressure at work.
Despite what you may have heard, driving commercial trucks back and forth on a continual basis is no walk in the park. These workers still have deadlines to meet, bosses to answer to, and hours they need to fulfill. This ties back into drivers forcing themselves to carry on even when it’s unhealthy so that they aren’t reprimanded by customers or supervisors.
Steps to Take If You’re in a Truck Crash
Have you or someone you love been in an accident? If so, the first thing that you should do is call 911. Be sure to explain everything you can. If you’re injured, don’t move; wait until EMS and the police arrive. Furthermore, t’s important to seek out medical care whether you think you’re hurt or not because you may have sustained internal wounds that can quite serious.
Getting in touch with a firm of trucking lawyers near you is the next step. Personal injury lawyers are professionals who understand how to navigate the legal system and advocate for you and your rights. They will help you file any claims, sort through information, and know how to gather the right kind of evidence for your situation. Their main priority is to help ease the weight from your shoulders. Injury lawyers know the ins and outs of these types of cases because that’s what they specialize in. You’ll be able to focus on healing while they investigate and work on your behalf.
Are you in need of a truck crash lawyer near you? At Grover Law, our experienced, reliable team is here to assist you however we can. Call or visit our website to set up a consultation today.