What Types of Commercial Trucking Companies Are Involved in the Most Major Crashes?
If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a crash involving a commercial truck, you’re probably wondering: what kinds of trucking companies are most often behind these devastating accidents? The answer isn’t always simple, but the research and crash reports do point toward some clear patterns.
The Biggest Names, the Most Crashes
First, let’s talk about the big players. Companies like FedEx and UPS have the highest numbers of truck crashes nationwide, including both fatal and non-fatal accidents. This isn’t just because they’re careless—it’s largely because they have the largest fleets and the most trucks on the road. Still, with more trucks comes more risk. Data from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and various legal analyses consistently show that FedEx and UPS are involved in the most truck crashes each year. Other major companies with high crash numbers include J.B. Hunt, Swift Transportation, and Werner Enterprises.
Types of Trucks That Cause the Most Accidents
Beyond the specific companies, certain types of trucks are more frequently involved in serious accidents. Semi-trucks (also known as tractor-trailers or “18-wheelers”) are at the top of this list. These are the big rigs you see hauling freight across highways and city streets. Other truck types often implicated in crashes include dump trucks, delivery trucks, and tanker trucks. These vehicles are not only large and heavy, but they’re also often operated in challenging conditions—tight delivery schedules, long distances, and sometimes less-than-ideal maintenance (as discussed in ScienceDirect).
Why Do These Crashes Happen?
The causes of major truck crashes are varied, but a few repeat offenders show up again and again:
- Driver fatigue: Many commercial drivers are pushed to work long hours, sometimes in violation of safety rules.
- Distracted or impaired driving: Cellphone use, substance abuse, and drowsiness can all play a role.
- Mechanical failures: Poorly maintained trucks (sometimes due to company cost-cutting) can lead to brake failures, tire blowouts, and other problems.
- Company pressure and training: Some companies may push drivers to meet unrealistic schedules or fail to provide proper training, putting everyone at greater risk (FMCSA, EMC Insurance).
What Does This Mean for You?
If you’re up against a major trucking company after a crash, you’re not alone—and you’re not powerless. These companies are under constant scrutiny because of their accident records, and the law provides recourse for those harmed by their negligence. If you or someone you love has been injured or worse, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our firm specializes in holding commercial trucking companies accountable and helping victims get the compensation and support they deserve.
Stay safe out there, and remember: knowing your rights is the first step to protecting yourself on the road.
Girards Law Firm specializes in severe injury and wrongful death cases, especially those that involve birth injuries, brain damage, heart damage, spinal cord injuries or severe burns in Texas, Arkansas and Oklahoma. Contact us at www.girardslaw.com by using the chat feature for more information.