Common Causes of Truck Accidents in New York

Get Legal Help After a Big Rig Collision

Given the unique dangers of tractor-trailers and big rigs, it's no surprise that causes of collisions are almost as varied as each truck accident itself. Trucks handle differently than passenger vehicles on the road and are susceptible not only to the vagaries of weather and road condition, but to training issues, mechanical defects, and driver error on the part of the truck driver and other drivers on the road.

In 2007, the results of a Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration study that looked at contributing causes of big rig accidents were published. This study found that tire failure, driver fatigue, and lack of electronically-controlled braking system were the biggest mechanical errors responsible for truck collisions. The article pointed out that electronically-controlled disc brakes could reduce stopping distances by as much as 30 percent.

Driver Error Resulting in Collisions

Driver error was also found to be one of the greatest causes of truck accidents. Sleepy or improperly rested drivers tend to make worse decisions than drivers with comparable training who have had enough rest. In addition, many truck drivers face time pressures that contribute to bad decision-making on the road - and dangerous or fatal crashes. In addition, drug or alcohol abuse or health problems can also cause or contribute to a truck accident.

Unsafe Conditions in New York

Weather conditions and unsafe roads can also cause truck accidents. In addition, improperly trained passenger vehicle drivers sometimes do not understand how to share the road and can contribute to collisions, jackknifing, or dangerous rollovers. No matter what the cause, the consequences of a truck accident can be complex at best, fatal at worst. Property damage and life-threatening injuries can plague victims, some of whom don't know where to turn as they seek compensation for their injuries.

Call (212) 986-7353 For a Free Consultation

At Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro & Halperin, LLP we specialize in New York truck accident lawsuits and can help you get the compensation you deserve without the stress, hassle, and danger of dealing with adverse insurance companies and multiple parties. Your time, money, and health are valuable - protect your legal rights with experienced, aggressive attorneys who know what it takes to get compensation for your injuries. Have you been injured in a truck accident? Have questions about a potential lawsuit? Call today for a free, confidential case consultation.

Additional Information

• How do Human Factors Cause Large Truck Accidents in New York?
• Top Four Causes of New York Truck Accidents
• The Large Truck Crash Causation Study
• Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration

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