6 Truck Accident Statistics That Will Shock You
Truck accidents are the most dangerous of all auto accidents. Trucks are huge vehicles when compared to the average passenger car. The death rate is very high in truck accidents due to this size difference.
Truck accidents are usually the result of negligence. The common causes of truck accidents include:
- Distracted driving
- Driving under the influence
- Sleep-deprived driving
- Violating traffic rules
- Violating hours of service regulations
- Defective parts
All of the aforementioned causes have the potential to wreck victims’ lives. Victims can mitigate the consequences of truck accidents to a great extent with the help of truck accident lawyers.
Many don’t realize how serious of an issue truck accidents are. The number of truck accidents has been constantly increasing for a long time.
This blog post lists the 6 most shocking facts about truck accidents that will help you understand the seriousness of the issue. Read on.
1. In 2021, 523,796 truck accidents occurred
More than half a million truck accidents occurred in the US in 2021. Out of this, 117,300 truck accidents resulted in severe injuries.
While most truck accidents did not result in deaths or injuries, it is still concerning that over 100,000 accidents resulted in severe injuries.
Most truck accidents were the result of drivers’ and trucking companies’ negligence. Victims can hold the at-fault party accountable for their losses.
2. Truck accident deaths have increased by 17% in 2021
A total of 5,788 people lost their lives in truck accidents in 2021. This is a 17% increase from the previous year and a 47% increase from the last 10 years.
As already mentioned, the number of truck accidents has been consistently increasing, and this statistic proves that. The government and the people should start taking severe action to control truck accidents.
3. Drunk driving contributed to 6.7% of truck accidents
People think drunk driving is the most common cause of truck accidents. However, drunk driving accounts for only 6.7% of truck accidents. This is because truck drivers have more stringent rules when it comes to drunk driving.
A drunk person cannot control a truck. They will have slow reaction times and blurry vision.
4. Most truck accidents occur during the daytime
More than 50% of truck accidents happen during the daytime. People may believe that accidents are more likely to happen at night due to reduced vision. However, most accidents took place between 6 am and 3 pm.
5. Intersections are a hotspot for fatal truck accidents
26.6% of fatal truck accidents occurred at intersections. Traffic will be high at intersections, and even a minor mistake will result in catastrophic accidents. Cars making left turns and running a red light are common causes of accidents at intersections.
All drivers must be very careful at intersections. Learn about the safety precautions one must take at intersections.
6. Other vehicle occupants are most likely do die
As said, trucks are huge vehicles compared to cars. So truck drivers and occupants will be safe. 72% of all truck accident deaths are occupants of other vehicles.
Other vehicle drivers should be cautious. Car drivers should take proper safety precautions to avoid accidents. In the event of an accident, however, it is a must to seek unparalleled legal guidance for truck accident victims.
Remember, one cannot expect truck drivers and trucking companies to respect the duty of care they owe. So, it is better you take safety precautions.
Final Thoughts
These statistics show how serious truck accidents are. The worst part is that the number of these accidents is not coming down.
The best way to control truck accidents is by holding the negligent party accountable for their actions. File a truck accident claim with the help of a lawyer.
The lawyer will help you by determining liability, calculating your losses, negotiating with the insurance company, and obtaining fair compensation for your losses.
