Accidents involving large tractor-trailer trucks can be serious and result in severe injuries or death. Accidents on the Interstate are not uncommon. Recently, an accident occurred on I-5 when a big rig reportedly lost control and hit the center divider. The truck then hit a passenger sedan, which came to rest underneath the truck’s 40-foot trailer. The accident sent at least one person to the hospital, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP). The crash happened close to the Cristianitos Road exit.

Truck Accidents are Dangerous
Because of their size and weight, 18-wheelers can cause significant damage to passenger vehicles. Truck accidents are often serious and may result in fatalities. While there is no report yet on the cause of the semi driver crashing into the center median, truck driver fatigue sometimes plays a role in these types of accidents. This particular incident occurred at about 4:40 am, a likely time for fatigue to set in.

Causes of Big Rig Accidents
There are many different reasons why trucks get into accidents. However, there are some reasons that are more common than others, such as driver inattention, which is sometimes caused by fatigue. Truck drivers regularly drive for many hours in a row, often without having enough sleep. Another reason for truck accidents is equipment malfunction or failure, such as blown tires or brakes that malfunction. Trucks are supposed to be inspected on a regular basis to ensure that they meet current safety requirements. Large truck drivers may also find it difficult to see other vehicles not he road and could move into a lane that is already occupied by a car.

Distracted and Impaired Driving
Distracted driving is a common cause of accidents on the road, including those involving large trucks. There are a number of things that contribute to distracted driving such as cell phone use, reading while driving, eating, and talking to passengers. Anything that takes your eyes off the road can be considered a distraction.

When people think about impaired driving, they usually think of driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Another type of impaired driving is driving while fatigued. Drowsy driving is a serious problem. The Center for Diseases Control and Prevention, CDC, estimates that one in 25 drivers has reported falling asleep at the wheel during the past 30 days. It is estimated that as many as 6,000 fatalities occur each year due to drivers who are drowsy.

Accident Prevention
Although not every accident can be avoided, practicing defensive driving will help reduce the risk of being involved in a serious crash. Do not get behind the wheel when you are tired, and do not text and drive. If you see a driver who appears to be impaired, move away from him or her and call the police. Provide a description of the vehicle, license plate number when safe to do so, and location.

If you are seriously hurt in an accident caused by a distracted or impaired driver, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact the experienced legal team at the Law Office of Patrick G. Shea to discuss your case today.

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