There are many reasons truck accidents happen in Arkansas, but it’s often because of the truck driver or trucking company’s negligent behavior.
It only takes a split second – or less – of distraction or mistake to cause a devastating truck accident.
Below, we have listed common causes of truck accidents in Arkansas:
Driver Fatigue
Truck drivers are often encouraged by tracking companies to drive long hours to get cargo delivered as quickly as possible.
Sadly, driving for long hours leads to exhaustion, and the truck drivers become less responsive behind the wheel. Some even fall asleep while driving.
Always be cautious when driving next to big trucks.
Distracted Driving
Truck drivers have a responsibility to be attentive when driving to drive safely.
When a truck driver is distracted while behind the wheel by a cell phone or other reasons, they make mistakes, and a devastating accident may occur.
Reckless Driving
Some drivers drive over the speed limit to deliver loads quickly and disregard traffic rules.
Drug Use
Some truck drivers abuse drugs or alcohol while driving.
Employers/trucking companies must test in these circumstances.
Oversized Or Improperly Secured Freight
Trucks carry heavy loads, which increase the chances of them being involved in a crash if the cargo is loaded correctly.
Oversized or improper loading may make it difficult for the truck driver to maneuver the vehicle on parking lots, roads, and highways.
Poorly Trained Or Inexperienced Drivers
Trucking companies are required to train their drivers to be equipped with safe and proper truck driving skills.
After all, driving big trucks is different from regular vehicles.
Lack Of Truck Maintenance
When drivers complete their daily routes, the trucks are taken for inspection, and the drivers fill out inspection reports detailing the condition of the truck.
Trucking companies are responsible for handling the maintenance of their fleet.
If a motor carrier ignores these reports and fails to maintain the trucks, the result can be catastrophic.
Equipment Malfunction
18-wheelers and other trucks have many moving parts, and sometimes, one of these parts malfunctions.
When something like the steering wheel fails, then a truck accident can happen.
Poor Road Conditions
The state of the road, such as lacking signals, poor signage, uneven pavement, icy roads, or missing guardrails, can make a truck collision more likely to happen.