Truck accidents are a common occurrence on Missouri highways and interstates. The prevalence of these accidents can be attributed to a variety of factors, including the large number of commercial trucks that travel through the state, the high speed limits on some roads, and the sometimes unpredictable weather conditions.

When a truck accident occurs, the results can be devastating. The sheer size and weight of commercial trucks make them much more dangerous than passenger vehicles in a collision. Injuries sustained in a truck accident are often severe and can include broken bones, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and even death.

In Missouri, truck accidents are a serious problem. The state is a major hub for trucking companies due to its central location in the country and its extensive network of highways. According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2020 there were over 2,200 truck accidents in Missouri, resulting in 89 fatalities and 424 injuries. This means that there are a large number of trucks on the road at any given time, increasing the likelihood of accidents.

Like in many other states, there are several common causes of truck accidents that can lead to serious injuries and even fatalities.

Driver fatigue

The problem of driver fatigue is exacerbated by the pressures of meeting tight delivery schedules and long hours behind the wheel. Truck drivers are often pushed to their limits in order to meet deadlines, leading to fatigue and inattention on the road. This can have serious consequences, not only for the driver themselves but for other motorists on the road as well.

Fatigue impairs a driver's ability to focus, react quickly, and make good decisions while behind the wheel. This can lead to dangerous situations on the road, such as drifting out of their lane, failing to brake in time, or falling asleep at the wheel. All of these scenarios increase the likelihood of a serious accident occurring.

To prevent truck accidents caused by driver fatigue, it's important for trucking companies to prioritize safety and provide their drivers with the support they need to rest and recharge. This includes implementing strict limits on driving hours, providing adequate rest breaks, and encouraging drivers to take breaks when they feel tired.

Distracted driving

Distracted driving is a major problem on the roads today, and it can have deadly consequences when it comes to operating a commercial truck. Truck drivers are often on the road for long hours at a time, and distractions can be even more tempting when trying to stay awake and alert.

One of the most common causes of distracted driving among truck drivers is the use of cell phones. Whether it's checking a text message, making a phone call, or using a GPS app, taking your eyes off the road for even a few seconds can have catastrophic results. In fact, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that texting and driving is six times more dangerous than driving while intoxicated.

Other distractions for truck drivers include eating or drinking, adjusting the radio or climate controls, and even daydreaming. When operating a vehicle as large and heavy as a commercial truck, any distraction can be deadly.

Distracted driving can lead to a number of different types of accidents involving commercial trucks, including rear-end collisions, lane departures, and rollovers. These accidents can result in serious injuries and even death for both the truck driver and other motorists on the road.

To prevent distracted driving accidents involving commercial trucks, it's important for truck drivers to stay focused on the task at hand. This means putting away cell phones, avoiding eating or drinking while driving, and staying alert throughout their entire shift. Employers can also help by implementing policies that prohibit distracted driving and providing training on the dangers of being distracted behind the wheel.

Speeding

Speeding is a common issue on the roads, with many drivers choosing to exceed the speed limit in order to get to their destination faster. While speeding can be dangerous for any type of vehicle, it can be particularly hazardous for trucks.

Trucks are much larger and heavier than typical passenger vehicles, which means they require more time and distance to come to a stop. When a truck is traveling at high speeds, the chances of a serious accident occurring are greatly increased. The force of impact in a truck accident is often much greater than in a collision involving only cars, which can result in catastrophic injuries and even death.

Speeding can also make it harder for truck drivers to control their vehicles, especially in adverse weather conditions or on winding roads. If a truck driver is speeding and loses control of their vehicle, they may not be able to correct the situation in time to avoid a collision with other vehicles on the road.

It is important for truck drivers to obey the speed limit and drive at a safe and reasonable speed for the road conditions.

Improper loading

Improper loading can cause the weight of the cargo to shift during transit, leading to instability and potentially causing the truck to tip over. This can be particularly dangerous on curves or in inclement weather conditions. In addition, an overloaded truck can put excessive strain on the brakes, making it more difficult for the driver to stop quickly in an emergency situation.

Improperly loaded trucks can also lead to cargo spilling onto the road, creating hazards for other vehicles. Loose cargo can also cause distractions for the driver, increasing the likelihood of an accident.

To prevent accidents caused by improper loading, it is essential for truck drivers and companies to adhere to proper loading guidelines and regulations. This includes properly securing and distributing the weight of the cargo, following weight limits set by authorities, and regularly inspecting the load during transit.

Inexperienced drivers

Inexperienced drivers may lack the skills and knowledge necessary to safely operate a large commercial truck. They may not be familiar with the specific regulations and guidelines that govern commercial driving, or they may not have had enough practice behind the wheel to handle the unique challenges that come with driving a truck.

Inexperienced drivers are more likely to make mistakes on the road, such as misjudging distances, failing to properly secure their cargo, or driving too fast for road conditions. These mistakes can have serious consequences when they involve a large truck, which can cause significant damage and injury in the event of an accident.

Inexperienced drivers may also be more likely to panic or make poor decisions in high-pressure situations, such as when they encounter heavy traffic or poor weather conditions. This can increase the risk of accidents, as inexperienced drivers may not know how to react quickly and effectively to avoid a collision.

One way to help prevent truck accidents caused by inexperienced drivers is to ensure that all commercial truck drivers receive comprehensive training and ongoing education. This can help new drivers learn the skills they need to operate a truck safely, as well as keep more experienced drivers up-to-date on the latest regulations and best practices.

Additionally, trucking companies can also take steps to ensure that their drivers are experienced and skilled enough to handle the demands of the job. This may include implementing stricter hiring practices, providing mentoring and coaching programs for new drivers, and regularly assessing and monitoring driver performance.

Mechanical failures

One of the most common mechanical failures that can cause a truck accident is brake failure. When a truck's brakes fail, the driver is unable to slow down or stop, leading to catastrophic collisions with other vehicles. In some cases, the brakes may have been poorly maintained or not inspected regularly, leading to deterioration and eventual failure. In other cases, the brakes may have been defective or improperly installed, putting everyone on the road at risk.

Another mechanical failure that can cause truck accidents in Missouri is tire blowouts. When a truck's tires blow out, the driver can lose control of the vehicle, leading to rollovers or collisions with other vehicles. Tire blowouts can be caused by a number of factors, including overloading, underinflation, or poor tire maintenance. In some cases, the tires may be defective or improperly installed, putting the driver and others on the road in danger.

Other mechanical failures that can cause truck accidents in Missouri include steering system malfunctions, engine malfunctions, and transmission failures. When any of these systems fail, the driver may lose control of the vehicle, leading to serious accidents. These failures can be caused by a lack of maintenance, improper repairs, or defective parts.

In order to prevent truck accidents caused by mechanical failures, it is crucial that trucking companies and drivers prioritize regular maintenance and inspections of their vehicles. This includes checking and maintaining brakes, tires, steering systems, engines, and transmissions on a regular basis. Additionally, truck drivers should be properly trained on how to inspect their vehicles and should report any issues immediately.

Adverse weather conditions

In Missouri, where the weather can be unpredictable and severe, truck drivers are often faced with treacherous road conditions that puts their safety and the safety of others at risk.

Adverse weather conditions like heavy rain, strong winds, snow, and ice can greatly affect the ability of a truck driver to maneuver their vehicle safely. Reduced visibility, slippery roads, and decreased traction can lead to a number of dangerous situations, including skidding, jackknifing, and rollovers.

According to a report from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, adverse weather conditions are a leading cause of truck accidents in Missouri. In fact, the state sees a high number of truck accidents each year due to weather-related factors. These accidents can result in serious injuries and even fatalities, making it crucial for truck drivers to exercise caution and adjust their driving accordingly.

To help prevent accidents caused by adverse weather conditions, truck drivers should always stay informed about the weather forecast and road conditions before hitting the road. They should also ensure their vehicles are properly equipped with tires suitable for the weather conditions, and that they have enough fuel, water, and emergency supplies on hand in case they get stuck or stranded.

Improper lane changes

Lane changes may seem like a simple maneuver on the road, but when done improperly, they can lead to serious accidents, especially when involving large trucks. In Missouri, improper lane changes are a leading cause of truck accidents, and it is important for all drivers to understand the risks associated with this dangerous behavior.

Large trucks, such as tractor-trailers and semi-trucks, have much larger blind spots than regular passenger vehicles. This means that truck drivers may not always be able to see other vehicles around them when changing lanes. When a driver cuts off a truck or fails to give them enough space to merge, it can lead to a collision.

Improper lane changes can also cause trucks to swerve or lose control, especially if the driver overcorrects in an attempt to avoid a collision. This can result in jackknifing or rollover accidents, which are among the deadliest types of truck crashes.

It is crucial for all drivers, both regular motorists and truck drivers, to practice safe lane-changing habits. This includes using turn signals when changing lanes, checking blind spots before merging, and giving plenty of space to other vehicles on the road. In the case of trucks, it is recommended to stay out of their blind spots and avoid driving directly alongside them if possible.

In Missouri, the consequences of improper lane changes can be severe. Not only can it result in serious injuries and fatalities, but it can also lead to legal consequences for the at-fault driver. If you have been involved in a truck accident caused by an improper lane change, it is important to seek legal help to ensure that you receive the proper compensation for your injuries and damages.

Tailgating

Tailgating is a dangerous driving behavior that can lead to devastating accidents, especially when it involves large trucks. In Missouri, the prevalence of tailgating on the roads has been a major factor in causing truck accidents.

When a truck tailgates another vehicle, it significantly reduces the amount of time the driver has to react to sudden changes in traffic. This can be particularly dangerous on highways and interstates where vehicles are traveling at high speeds. If the vehicle in front suddenly brakes or slows down, the truck driver may not have enough time to stop in time, causing a rear-end collision.

In addition to the risk of rear-end collisions, tailgating can also lead to other types of accidents involving trucks. For example, if a truck is following too closely and needs to make a lane change, there may not be enough space to safely maneuver without hitting another vehicle. This can result in side-swipe accidents or even more serious collisions.

Tailgating is not only dangerous for the drivers involved, but it can also have serious consequences for other motorists on the road. Large trucks are much heavier and more powerful than passenger vehicles, so when they are involved in accidents, the results can be catastrophic. Accidents involving trucks often result in severe injuries or fatalities for those involved.

To help prevent truck accidents caused by tailgating, it is important for all drivers to practice safe driving habits. This includes maintaining a safe following distance, obeying speed limits, and avoiding aggressive behaviors on the road. Truck drivers, in particular, should be aware of the size and weight of their vehicles and adjust their driving accordingly.

Failure to yield

Truck drivers are not exempt from this rule, and are in fact held to a higher standard due to the size and weight of their vehicles. Failure to yield by a truck driver can have devastating consequences, as their trucks can cause much more damage than a passenger vehicle.

There are several scenarios in which failure to yield by a truck driver can lead to an accident. One common scenario is when a truck driver fails to yield at an intersection, causing a collision with another vehicle that has the right of way. This can happen if the driver is distracted, fatigued, or simply not paying attention to the road.

Another common scenario is when a truck driver fails to yield to a pedestrian or cyclist at a crosswalk. Pedestrians and cyclists have the right of way at crosswalks, and it is the responsibility of the driver to yield to them. Failure to do so can result in a serious accident and potentially even a loss of life.

In order to prevent failure to yield accidents involving trucks, it is important for both truck drivers and other motorists to be aware of their surroundings and follow the rules of the road. Truck drivers should be especially vigilant when approaching intersections, crosswalks, and other areas where they may need to yield to other vehicles or pedestrians.

Drug or alcohol impairment

In Missouri, as in many other states, drug or alcohol impairment is a leading cause of truck accidents. These accidents can have serious consequences, including injury or death to those involved and significant property damage. Unfortunately, these accidents are often preventable, as driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is both illegal and dangerous.

Despite the risks, some truck drivers still choose to drive while impaired. This can be due to a variety of factors, including long hours on the road leading to fatigue, pressure to deliver goods on a tight deadline, or simply poor judgment. Whatever the reason, the results can be catastrophic.

When a truck driver is impaired by drugs or alcohol, their ability to safely operate their vehicle is severely compromised. Reaction times are slowed, judgment is impaired, and coordination is diminished. This can lead to a lack of control over the vehicle, resulting in swerving, speeding, or even falling asleep at the wheel.

In Missouri, laws are in place to deter and punish drivers who choose to operate a vehicle while impaired. Truck drivers are subject to strict regulations regarding drug and alcohol use, including mandatory drug testing and random screenings. However, despite these measures, accidents still occur.

Poor visibility

Drivers of large trucks may have limited visibility, especially in blind spots, which can lead to accidents with other vehicles on the road.

One of the main reasons poor visibility leads to truck accidents in Missouri is due to the size and weight of these vehicles. Trucks are significantly larger and heavier than other vehicles on the road, making them more difficult to maneuver in inclement weather conditions. When visibility is poor, truck drivers may struggle to see other vehicles on the road, potential hazards, or road signs, leading to accidents.

Additionally, poor visibility can affect a truck driver's reaction time and ability to make split-second decisions. In a state like Missouri where weather conditions can change rapidly, truck drivers must be prepared to adjust their driving accordingly. However, if visibility is poor, it can be challenging for truck drivers to navigate through traffic safely.

Another factor that contributes to truck accidents in Missouri is distracted driving. With the rise of technology and smartphones, many drivers, including truck drivers, are easily distracted while behind the wheel. When visibility is poor, distractions can further hinder a driver's ability to focus on the road, increasing the likelihood of an accident.

To prevent truck accidents due to poor visibility in Missouri, it is crucial for truck drivers to be properly trained in handling various weather conditions. Additionally, trucking companies should enforce strict safety protocols to ensure their drivers are following proper procedures while on the road. Truck drivers should also be vigilant in monitoring weather reports and adjusting their driving habits accordingly.