The more time you spend on the road the more comfortable you will become. While this is a good thing, you never want to take your safety for granted. Just when you let your guard down you could find yourself in a serious situation.

Regardless of where you’re driving, it’s common to share the road with large commercial trucks. This may not be something you enjoy doing, but it’s a way of life as a driver.

Unfortunately, there are times when truckers and trucking companies don’t consider the well-being of everyone on the road. Subsequently, a serious accident occurs.

Here are some of the top causes of commercial truck accidents:

  • Distracted driving, such as when a trucker takes his or her eyes off the road to send a text message or take a phone call
  • Lack of training, which often falls back on the trucking company
  • Driving under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or prescription medications (those that cause drowsiness)
  • Drowsy driving, often related to a driver who does not take the required breaks
  • Reckless driving, which includes but is not limited to speeding, swerving, and failure to signal when changing lanes
  • Unrealistic schedules that force a trucker to drive too fast and/or not take enough breaks

Being part of a commercial truck accident is every bit as serious as it sounds. Due to the difference in vehicle size, you are at a disadvantage. As a result, there’s a greater chance that you will suffer a serious injury, such as a traumatic brain injury or broken back.

If you or a loved one suffers any type of injury in a truck accident, it’s important to receive medical attention and work with your doctor toward making a full recovery.

Also, don’t hesitate to learn more about your legal rights. You may be able to take action against the driver and/or trucking company, all with the idea of protecting your rights and seeking compensation for injuries and damages.