According to research, the average semi-truck travels at least 45,000 miles annually, while long-distance trucks travel about 100,000 miles yearly. With so many hours logged behind the wheel, it’s no wonder that other motorists regularly sport these big rigs while navigating the roadways in Maryland. However, the substantial difference in mass and size makes accidents particularly devastating. Truck accidents often result in more severe injuries and damage to occupants in other vehicles. Many accidents are, however, preventable if truck drivers adhere to the law and safety standards set forth by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). If you’ve been injured in a trucking accident, you should enlist the help of a compassionate Prince George’s County Truck Accident Lawyer who can help you fight for the justice you deserve. Please continue reading to learn the most common causes of trucking accidents in Maryland.
What Are the Most Common Causes of Trucking Accidents in Maryland?
The FMCSA works to prevent accidents and injuries related to the operation of commercial vehicles. Essentially, they are responsible for regulating and providing safety oversight for commercial vehicles. Truck drivers’ failure to comply with federal trucking regulations increases their chances of being involved in a collision.
Driver fatigue is a severe issue in the trucking industry. As such, the FMCSA enforces stringent Hours of Service (HOS) regulations that control the working hours of commercial drivers. These rules limit the number of consecutive hours a driver can be on duty. They also specified mandatory rest periods to prevent driver fatigue. However, truck drivers are often under pressure to meet strict deadlines. This results in truckers pushing themselves way beyond their limits. Driver fatigue is a factor in many truck accidents.
In addition to driver fatigue, mechanical failure causes many trucking accidents in Maryland. A lack of proper maintenance and inspection can result in parts malfunctioning, contributing to system failures. The FMCSA requires every motor carrier to systematically inspect, repair, and maintain all commercial vehicles in its control. Tire wear is a serious problem, as tire blowouts can result in losing control of the vehicle. Also, mechanical failures in the brakes can present a significant risk. Inexperienced drivers who ride their brakes increase the chances of break failure. Therefore, motor carriers must perform pre-trip and post-trip inspections, reporting any issues detected.
Unfortunately, truck accidents most commonly occur due to driver error and non-compliance with federal trucking regulations. Trucking accidents can result in physical, emotional, and financial burdens that can follow a victim for years to come. If you’ve been injured in a truck accident due to another driver’s negligence, please don’t hesitate to contact a trusted lawyer from the legal team at Timian & Fawcett, LLC, who can help assess your case and represent your needs.
