Truck accidents are unfortunately becoming more and more common on our roads. The daily average for truck accidents in the United States has increased significantly over the past decade, leaving many people injured and even killed in tragic collisions.
These types of accidents can be particularly devastating due to the massive size and weight of these vehicles. As such, it’s important to understand the causes and effects of truck accidents in order to prevent them from occurring in the future. Here, we look at some statistics and information on truck accidents in the United States.
How Often Do Truck Accidents Occur?
Since 2018, truck accidents have seen a drop in reported incidents. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, fatal truck crashes increased from 4,761 to 4,842 in 2020. The involvement rate per 100 million large-truck miles traveled is down 5% from 2019 but up 18% since 2011.
Large trucks are any medium or heavy truck, not including buses and motorhomes, with a gross vehicle weight rating greater than 10,000 pounds. Both commercial and non-commercial vehicles are included.
Due to their large size, trucks often cause more damage and injuries than other vehicles. While the average tractor-trailer can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, the average consumer vehicle weighs less than 4,000 pounds. The force of impact can cause far more severe injuries or fatality numbers in any truck accident injury case.
What are the Most Common Causes of Truck Accidents?
The most common cause of truck accidents is driver-related errors. This includes distracted driving, impaired driving, speeding, fatigue, and reckless driving.
Mechanical failures such as brakes or steering systems can also factor in crashes. Poorly maintained vehicles are more likely to experience mechanical failure and contribute to serious collisions.
Other factors contributing to truck accidents include bad weather, road construction, and poor vehicle design. All drivers need to be aware of their surroundings and drive defensively to avoid an accident with a large truck.
What Are the Most Common Injuries Sustained in Truck Accidents?
Due to their size, trucks are capable of causing more severe damage than other vehicles on the road. The most common injuries sustained in truck accidents include neck and back injuries, broken bones, lacerations, concussions, head trauma, and internal organ damage.
In addition to physical injuries, many victims of truck accidents also experience emotional trauma, such as depression or anxiety, due to the life-altering consequences of the accident. Victims need to seek medical attention as soon as possible after a truck accident to minimize their physical and emotional pain.
Average Settlement for Truck Accident Cases
The amount of the settlement awarded in truck accident cases will vary based on various factors, including the severity of the injury and the negligence on behalf of either party. The average claim for bodily injury after a collision was $20,235 in 2020, while the average property damage claim was $4,711.
The type of injury sustained, the number of medical costs, and the amount of time needed for recovery will all factor into the settlement amount. It is important to note that a personal injury lawyer can help you understand the facts of the case and maximize your financial compensation.
In summary, truck accidents are a growing problem in the United States. Driver-related errors such as distracted driving, impaired driving, speeding, and fatigue are the most common causes of these collisions.
These accidents often result in severe physical injuries and emotional trauma for their victims. All drivers must be aware of their surroundings when sharing the road with large trucks to avoid accidents.
