Truck accidents often stem from a combination of human error, mechanical issues, and regulatory violations. One of the most frequent causes is driver negligence, which includes distracted driving, speeding, impaired driving, and fatigue. Fatigue is particularly common in the trucking industry, where drivers may exceed federal hours-of-service limits due to pressure to meet delivery deadlines. When drivers operate while exhausted, their reaction times and decision-making abilities are severely compromised, putting everyone on the road at risk.
Other causes include mechanical failures such as brake malfunctions, tire blowouts, or engine issues, often resulting from improper maintenance.
California’s strict vehicle maintenance and inspection laws require trucking companies to ensure their fleets are safe for operation, but shortcuts are sometimes taken to save time or money. Improperly loaded cargo is another significant factor, as uneven or overweight loads can cause trucks to tip, jackknife, or lose control. Additionally, hazardous road conditions, such as debris, construction zones, or poor weather, further increase the likelihood of an accident, especially when trucks are poorly maintained or operated recklessly.
