CAUSES OF TRUCK ACCIDENTS IN LOUISIANA

There are a number of causes of truck accidents in Louisiana. Here are listed the most common.

EXCESSIVE SPEED & RECKLESS DRIVING

Excessive speed is the second leading cause of U.S. roadway crashes. When traveling at increased speed, a greater distance is needed to brake to a stop, reaction time is diminished, and the intensity of the collision is greater. Other examples of reckless driving include changing lanes without looking, tailgating, and disregarding road signs or signals. The passenger vehicle driver is the cause of approximately 75% of accidents involving a CMV.

DRIVER FATIGUE

In commercial truck accidents, fatigue is found to be a contributing factor roughly 13% of the time. Fatigue is very likely underreported as a contributing factor in vehicle accidents. The FMCSA sets limits for the amount of time an operator may drive per day and per week. Drivers may potentially drive up to 11 hours in a day when the proper break schedule is followed.

INTOXICATED DRIVERS

Drunk drivers have been shown to demonstrate delayed response times, an inability to properly focus, and poor decision-making. In Louisiana in 2016, impaired driving was a factor in 334 traffic fatalities, which is roughly 40% of all traffic deaths.

DISTRACTED DRIVING

Over the last ten years, distracted driving has become a major safety concern. It is now the leading cause of roadway accidents in the U.S. Some common examples include drivers who are using mobile devices, eating or drinking, tending to children, and more. From 2011 to 2015 in Louisiana, 192 traffic fatalities and 26,977 injuries resulted from distracted driving. The state has implemented laws that prohibit text messaging, require “hands-free” phone use only in school zones, and restrict those under 18 from all mobile device activities while driving.

MECHANICAL FAILURES

The FMCSA has established detailed requirements regarding the regular inspection, maintenance, and repair of CMVs. The Technology & Maintenance Council says that tires are the reason for 53% of roadside truck breakdowns. FMCSA data shows that failures in truck braking systems are the cause of 29% of CMV accidents. When these trucks are carrying a load of cargo, they require 20 to 40% more distance to make a complete stop—even more amid wet road conditions.

INJURIES SUSTAINED IN TRACTOR-TRAILER ACCIDENTS

Injuries incurred in accidents involving large semi-trucks are more likely to result in death and injuries that are catastrophic in nature. Catastrophic injuries are those viewed as life-changing and have long-term consequences. Some examples include:

  • Loss of limb(s).
  • Major trauma to an internal organ, like a ruptured spleen or punctured lung.
  • Spinal cord injuries (SCIs) that cause neurological damage, like paralysis or impaired motor skills --approximately 276,000 Americans currently are coping with a SCI.
  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) from head trauma can have devastating effects including memory loss, an inability to concentrate and difficulty speaking, reading, or writing.

There are also a host of injuries that are more mild or moderate in severity. Examples include:

  • Whiplash, created by stress to the neck or spinal region that often results from a rear-end vehicle collision.
  • Back injuries, like a herniated disc that causes significant pain, potential nerve damage, and limitations in body movement.
  • Broken bones, taking weeks or months to heal.
  • Brain injuries, like concussions that lead to headaches, sensitivities to sounds or light, and problems with vision.

MEDICAL TREATMENT FOR SEMI-TRUCK ACCIDENT INJURIES

The medical treatment process for accident victims begins with assessing the nature and extent of the injuries, which often involves CT scans or X-rays. Next, a course of treatment is established that may involve surgery and medication for pain management.

Those with impaired body function may begin rehabilitation with medical professionals, like physical or occupational therapists. This rehabilitation may focus on improving mobility, strength, and flexibility and may involve medical equipment and potential modifications to the home of the individual. The costs of this treatment can become very high and are potentially recoverable as damages in a personal injury claim.

In addition, future medical costs may need to be calculated, as well as future losses of earnings.