18-Wheeler Accidents in Missouri-Common Causes

Located in the heart of the United States, Missouri’s highways, interstates, and rural roadways see a large volume of 18-wheelers traveling alongside much smaller vehicles around the clock. While these massive vehicles are crucial for transporting goods and providing services, they are also involved in some of the most severe and life-changing car accidents. Collisions with 18-wheelers often lead to catastrophic injuries, and in some cases, fatalities.

18-wheeler accidents can happen for many reasons, and some of the most common causes of 18-Wheeler Accidents in Missouri include:

Driver Fatigue: Many truck drivers work long hours, leading to exhaustion and slower reaction times. Even though regulations limit driving hours, some drivers or companies push these limits, increasing the risk of accidents.

Distracted Driving: Like other motorists, truck drivers can become distracted by their mobile phones, GPS devices, or even eating while driving, all of which significantly raise the chances of a crash.

Influence of Other Drivers: Due to their large size, truck drivers need to be particularly aware of smaller vehicles. If an 18-wheeler veers too close to another vehicle, it can cause the driver of that smaller vehicle to panic and overcorrect. While the accident may seem to involve the smaller vehicle, the truck driver’s actions might still be a contributing factor.

Decreased Sight Lines: Blind spots are a common issue for drivers of all vehicle types, but it’s even more challenging for 18-wheeler drivers due to the vehicle’s size and design. These limited sight lines increase the chances of collisions.

Insufficient or Expired Commercial Driver’s License (CDL): 18-wheeler drivers are required to have a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) or specific endorsements. However, some drivers may be asked to drive beyond the scope of their license, or they may fail to renew their CDL on time, which can be a factor in accidents.

Negligent or Inadequate Training: Even if a driver has experience operating an 18-wheeler, they should receive specific training for the vehicle they are driving. Employers often have training protocols or manuals to ensure drivers are properly prepared, and failure to meet these standards can lead to accidents.

Improper Loading of Cargo: When a trailer is poorly loaded or overloaded, it can shift during transit, causing the driver to lose control, particularly on curves or during sudden stops.

Mechanical Failures: Lack of maintenance can result in issues such as brake failures, tire blowouts, or other mechanical malfunctions that make it difficult to safely operate an 18-wheeler.

Following Too Closely for Longer Stopping Distances: Due to their weight, 18-wheelers require significantly more time and distance to stop. Missouri’s unpredictable weather—rain, ice, and fog—can further exacerbate this issue, making roads slick and dangerous, especially for large trucks that need more space to come to a full stop.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a serious accident with an 18-wheeler that resulted in severe injuries or death, it is important to consult with an experienced injury attorney. Even if the truck driver wasn’t entirely at fault, or if they were only partially responsible for the accident, you could still be entitled to substantial compensation through their commercial vehicle insurance and umbrella policies.

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