Georgia is a state with several major roads and highways, especially around urban areas. You must share these roads with many different types of vehicles, including large trucks.
But how common are truck accidents in Georgia? The exact answer to that question is difficult to determine, since some truck accidents may not be reported, but there are statistics that provide a general idea.
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, there were 192 deadly crashes involving large trucks in 2016, 207 in 2017, 179 in 2018 and 180 in 2019. This averages out to about 190 deadly truck crashes each year.
These statistics do not account for the numerous non-fatal truck crashes that still involve serious injuries.
What causes truck accidents?
The large size and heavy weight of trucks is one reason that truck accidents are so dangerous. Trucks typically take longer to stop and sometimes truckers do not allow enough space between them and other vehicles on the road.
Following too closely behind other vehicles is a common cause of truck crashes. Other common causes include distracted, drowsy or drunk driving and speeding.
There are some defensive driving strategies that you can use to reduce your risk of a collision with a large truck. Do not merge in front of a truck until you are far ahead of them and make sure to avoid being in a trucker’s blind spot.
Avoid driving near trucks whenever possible. If you cannot avoid driving near a large truck and cannot get a good distance away from it, consider pulling off into a safe place and giving the truck time to get further ahead.
Why are truck accidents so dangerous for smaller vehicle drivers?
When a truck crash occurs, the driver of the passenger vehicle is likely to be the one to suffer serious injuries. The truck’s heavy size and weight often protect the truck driver from sustaining any major injuries. Sometimes the trucker may not even realize they have collided with a smaller vehicle.
Truck drivers and trucking companies have a legal duty to make sure their trucks are operated safely while on the roads. Engaging in any of the behaviors described above could be considered negligent driving.
You have rights as the victim of a trucking accident and truckers and trucking companies should be held accountable for their negligent behavior. After a trucking accident, you may suffer for a long time with your injuries and be unable to work.
Proving negligence through a personal injury claim may allow you to recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering and other damages resulting from the truck crash. You must be prepared to prove negligence and defend yourself against any claims that your own negligence contributed to the accident.