Sharing Oklahoma roads with trucks can be very intimidating for other motorists because of the large size and immense weight of trucks. These characteristics, especially of large trucks, increase the risk of serious injury or death in the case of an Oklahoma truck crash. Although truck accidents can be caused by faulty manufacturing, poor design, or defective products, the most common cause of truck crashes, involving other vehicles or not, is driver error or negligence.
The most common types of driver error or negligence involve fatigued, distracted, or reckless driving. Although strict federal regulations are in place to prevent truck drivers from working too long without rest, many do not abide by them. The schedule of an Oklahoma truck driver, especially a long-haul truck driver, can be very demanding. The pressure of making a delivery on schedule can lead a driver to work extended hours. This may keep a delivery on schedule but it potentially endangers the driver as well as other vehicles on the road. An exhausted truck driver can fall asleep at the wheel and lose control of the truck; even if the driver does not fall asleep, they will have much slower reaction times, which also increases the risk of an accident. A truck driver that does not follow federally mandated work hour limits they, and possibly their employer, can be held liable for any accidents and injuries that result from their carelessness.
Oklahoma truck accidents may also be caused by a truck operator who was speeding, driving distractedly, recklessly, or otherwise negligently. It is essential that truck drivers comply with speed limits and drive appropriately for the current weather and road conditions. Failing to do so can cause catastrophic Oklahoma injuries.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck crash that was caused by truck driver negligence, you can seek compensation by filing a personal injury claim against the negligent party. Our experienced Oklahoma City truck crash attorneys at Maples Law Firm, LLP, have years of experience handling truck accident injury claims and can help you receive the compensation you are entitled to. Contact us today to discuss your potential claim at (405) 705-5050.
