Important Statistics on Truck Accidents

Some of the larger trucks on our roads can measure up to 75 feet in length, and carry a weight of more than 80,000 pounds. Consequently, when smaller, private vehicles are involved in collisions with these enormous trucks the results can be severe injury or even death to drivers and passengers. Most truck drivers are well-trained in the safest way to load and operate their vehicles, but deadly trucking accidents still occur. By becoming familiar with these statistics regarding trucking accidents, drivers may be more aware of the trucks around them and how to best protect their safety and that of their passengers.

• Many drivers may be surprised that more than 75% of accidents involving large trucks can be attributed to error on the part of the driver of the smaller vehicle involved.
• 12% if all traffic-related deaths in the United States occur in truck collisions.
• There are more than 500,000 truck accidents a year in the United States alone, leading to roughly 5,000 fatalities.
• 68% of truck accidents occur in rural areas, and more than 78% of fatal truck accidents happen on the weekends.
• Truck driver fatigue may account for up to 30% of truck accidents in the United States.
• Large trucks are more likely to be involved in multiple-vehicle crashes than smaller cars.

While it is impossible to avoid many accidents, knowing where and where trucking accidents are most likely to occur helps drivers to protect their safety when sharing the roads with trucks. Remember, it is much easier for you to see a large truck than it is for the truck driver to see smaller vehicles. Always give trucks a wide berth and stay alert to any potentially dangerous situations. If you or someone you care about has suffered harm after a trucking accident, you are advised to contact a lawyer who specializes in this field to ensure that you recover just compensation for damages. If you've lost a loved one in a truck accident, the lawyer will help you obtain compensation for your loss in a wrongful death lawsuit. Personal injury lawyers at our Phoenix law firm can help you recover damages for your losses.