Most people try to avoid auto accidents throughout their driving careers. However, that isn’t always possible. Of course, there are about a million reasons why that is, but we’re focusing on a particular topic today, truck driving accidents. Have you seen roadways in Bradenton and elsewhere recently? If that’s the case, you’ve probably noticed commercial trucks what feels like everywhere.

That is good, of course, because the vehicles and their operators are considered the backbone of America. They deliver goods across the nation so people and places can survive and flourish. But having such big vehicles around isn’t always all that it sounds cracked up to be.

Truck Driving Accident Fatalities

It is no secret that car accidents are dangerous. They are a leading cause of death in the United States, year in and year out. So, it isn’t surprising that people are concerned about truck accidents. Various factors can contribute to these incidents occurring, including but not limited to:

  • Driver  Fatigue
  • Poor Road Conditions
  • Distracted Driving
  • Driving Under The Influence

The NHTSA or National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reveals truck driving accidents caused 3,380 deaths in 2016 across the United States. That averages out to nine deaths each and every day. So, don’t think you or your family couldn’t fall into this category in Bradenton. Nobody is hoping for that, but this figure shows that it could be a possibility.

Truck Driving Accident Injuries

It is often because of the sheer size and weight of tractor-trailers that cause deaths. Small passenger vehicles, even with the latest safety features, aren’t always up to the task of protecting their drivers and passengers from the fate. However, the aftermath of Bradenton truck driving accidents isn’t always so grim.

That doesn’t mean everything is A-okay, though. People can also become severely injured in these crashes. Obviously, the injuries will vary from one situation to the next, so you won’t necessarily get the ones mentioned here if you’re ever involved in a crash. Common injuries associated with commercial truck accidents include fractures/broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, burns, etc.

Are Truck Drivers Always To Blame?

There are too many vehicles and drivers on Bradenton’s streets for commercial truck operators to always be to blame for accidents. If a motorcyclist, car driver, or even pedestrian messes up, they could be at fault for a crash. However, negligence by truckers could be the cause as well. Research shows fatal truck accidents in the U.S. increased by 28% in 2015 from the previous year to 4,311. Approximately 75% of the accidents, which is the majority, were caused by human error, such as impairment, speeding, and fatigue.

Meanwhile, nearly half of all fatal truck accidents, 48 percent, involved at least one other vehicle. But perhaps the next stat is the most important for this section. In two thirds of these 2015 crashes, truck drivers were found to be at fault. Hence, there’s a good chance that if you’re involved in such a situation, you might not be to blame.

Contact An Accident Attorney

If you get severely injured in a Bradenton truck accident because of negligence, you may have the grounds to seek compensation for your damages. Or if a family member dies in an incident due to negligence, you could qualify for restitution too. Would you like to find out if you have a claim? Contact Goldman, Babboni, Fernandez, Murphy & Walsh to schedule a free case review today.