There are many different situations that might lead to semi-truck collisions. A truck driver could have a medical emergency while on the clock that leaves them incapable of controlling a vehicle. Another driver might cut off the professional operating a semi-truck and cause a rear underride collision. Issues with a vehicle could result in a driver losing control.
Driver fatigue is one of the most serious safety concerns for semi-truck drivers and others in traffic. The issue is so serious that the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has adopted numerous restrictions on how long truck drivers can be on the road. Despite those rules, fatigued driving remains a common issue.
How often does fatigue cause collisions?
There is little objective research validating exactly how many crashes involve fatigued commercial operators. Drivers typically do not readily admit to factors that may have contributed to the wreck when they know they are at fault.
However, looking at the FMCSA’s analysis of what causes semi-truck crashes can make it quite clear that fatigue likely often plays a role. Fatigue diminishes decision-making ability. It makes it harder for drivers to remain focused and may increase their reaction times. In some cases, seriously fatigued motorists fall asleep at the wheel.
All of those issues are among the top reported causes of semi-truck collisions. The number one reason that truck drivers cause collisions is that they make the wrong decision in traffic. Compromised decision-making related to fatigue could be the underlying cause of such collisions.
The second leading cause of semi-truck collisions relates to a failure to monitor one’s surroundings. Distraction exacerbated by exhaustion may play a role in those collisions as well. Finally, a small but still concerning percentage of semi-truck collisions occur due to non-performance. The commercial driver becomes incapable of fulfilling job responsibilities. Falling asleep at the wheel could be the underlying issue.
Transportation companies often expect drivers to be on the road for the maximum number of hours legally possible. In some cases, they may even tacitly encourage rule-breaking, such as modifying drive time logs, to get deliveries to clients as quickly as possible. In scenarios where it is likely that fatigue could have contributed to a semi-truck crash, the company may be liable in addition to the driver who made poor decisions, failed to check their surroundings or fell asleep at the wheel.
Learning more about what causes semi-truck collisions can help people avoid them. Motorists who recognize warning signs of inappropriate driver or company conduct can use their understanding as they seek compensation after a wreck.