Why Do Major Commercial Truck Crashes Happen? The Leading Causes Explained
If you or someone you love has been hurt in a commercial truck crash, you’ve probably found yourself asking: why do these accidents happen in the first place? The answer isn’t just one thing—decades of research have shown that truck crashes are often caused by a mix of human error, mechanical problems, and company practices. Here’s what the experts say, broken down in plain English.
Driver Fatigue
One of the most common—and most dangerous—causes of truck crashes is driver fatigue. Truckers spend long hours on the road, and sometimes push themselves past safe limits to meet tight delivery schedules. Studies show that fatigue slows reaction times and impairs judgment, making it much more likely for a truck driver to cause a crash. In fact, long hours and lack of sleep have been directly linked to higher crash risks among truck drivers (FMCSA; Journal of Transport & Health).
Mechanical Failures
Not every crash is the driver’s fault. Equipment failures—especially brake problems—are a leading cause of major truck accidents. Research has found that over half of the tractor-trailers involved in serious crashes had some kind of brake defect, and steering problems were also common (IIHS). Poor maintenance or skipped inspections only make these problems worse.
Distracted and Reckless Driving
Just like with regular car accidents, distraction behind the wheel is a huge problem for truck drivers. Whether it’s texting, eating, fiddling with a GPS, or just zoning out, anything that takes a driver’s attention off the road increases the risk of a crash. Add to that reckless driving—speeding, tailgating, or making sudden lane changes—and the odds of a serious accident go up even more.
Impairment and Prescription Drugs
Driving under the influence—whether it’s alcohol, illegal drugs, or even certain prescription medications—remains a significant risk factor. Some medications can make drivers drowsy or less alert, and these effects have contributed to major crashes involving commercial trucks (FMCSA).
Poor Training and Inexperience
Operating a big rig safely takes skill and training. Inexperienced drivers—those who haven’t been properly trained or are new to the job—are more likely to make critical errors, like misjudging stopping distances or failing to react appropriately to road hazards.
Company Pressure and Unsafe Schedules
Finally, the way trucking companies run their business matters. Some companies pressure drivers to meet unrealistic deadlines, skip rest breaks, or drive longer than federal rules allow. This kind of pressure leads directly to fatigue, speeding, and cutting corners on maintenance—all major contributors to crashes.
What Does This Mean for Victims?
If you’ve been injured in a truck crash, it’s important to know that the causes are rarely as simple as a single mistake. There are often many layers—driver fatigue, equipment failures, company policies—that combine to create dangerous situations. That’s why thorough investigations are critical, and why it’s so important to work with a law firm that understands both the science and the law behind commercial truck accidents.
If you have questions or need help after a truck crash, reach out to our team. We’re here to help you uncover the truth and fight for the compensation you deserve.
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.