Truck accidents in California are caused by negligence, recklessness, weather, and inexperience. When they do happen, they create numerous injuries and, in some cases, fatalities. If you are the victim of a truck accident in California, our attorneys at Ernst Law Group can offer you guidance and support.
Our California truck accident lawyer can help you with any of these common types of truck accidents. Even if you have experienced something else, we can help you when you give us a call to schedule a free consultation.
What are the most common types of truck accidents in California?
The National Safety Council reported a total of 437 deaths from truck accidents in California in 2021, the second-highest in the nation. The following are the most common types of truck accidents seen on California’s urban streets and highway systems:
- Jackknife – When a tractor-trailer twists to create a “V” shape, it presents a large obstacle other drivers may be unable to avoid hitting.
- Rollovers – Any instance where a vehicle leaves the road and lands on its side or roof.
- Brake failures – Malfunctions or poor maintenance can cause the truck driver to lose control, colliding with other vehicles or objects.
- Rear-end collisions – These occur when a driver cannot stop the truck fast enough or when a distracted driver does not slow down in time.
- Underride accidents – These involve a car sliding under the trailer, often because the truck slowed or stopped while the car was following too closely.
- Tire blowouts – When an inspection or safety check overlooks a faulty tire, the truck driver can lose control when the tire blows out.
- Blindspot accidents – Extremely large blind spots on commercial trucks can put several vehicles at risk of accidents.
What is the most common reason truck accidents occur in California?
There are numerous reasons why truck accidents can happen, but the following are some of the most common causes:
- Speeding or reckless driving on the part of the truck driver
- Fatigued drivers who fail to abide by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s regulations on hours of service
- Heavy traffic that may result in aggressive driving by truck drivers or others on the road
- Distractions from eating, drinking, talking on a phone, texting, or using navigational tools
- Intoxication by the use of alcohol, illicit drugs, or prescription medications that affect a driver’s ability to operate a truck properly
- Equipment failures, including tire blowouts, brake failures, and cargo-related issues
- Lost loads from improperly stacked or balanced loads in the trailer
These are just some examples of reasons truck accidents occur. There are many others in which the data from the incident will ultimately determine who is at fault.
When do most truck accidents occur?
Truck drivers haul freight all day and night, but sometimes, it’s not the time of day that leads to a crash. Many accidents happen during periods of congested traffic when drivers are stressed and under pressure to complete their routes. In busy urban areas during rush hour, other drivers may be more likely to run lights or otherwise enter intersections without looking.
During school commute hours, truckers may have to contend with numerous passenger vehicles traveling near these institutions, putting cars and pedestrians at risk of injury. They also face higher traffic volume during the high season in tourist destinations or cities with heavy pass-through rates for commercial trucks.
We’re here to provide help after your truck accident
As you consider the common types of truck accidents in California, know that our truck attorneys at Ernst Law Group are ready to help you. With years of experience, we work to help you find the relief you need in these accidents. Call us now at (805) 541-0300 for a free consultation to discuss your case.
