Commercial trucks traveling on state highways pose serious risks when drivers and trucking companies fail to follow safety regulations. The massive weight of these vehicles means truck accidents often result in catastrophic injuries or fatalities. If you have been harmed by one of the common causes of truck accidents in Fresno, legal options exist for recovering compensation.
Our attorneys investigate every aspect of these complicated cases to identify all liable parties. Call to speak with a legal advocate who will advocate for your recovery.
What Causes Most Truck Accidents?
Driver-related factors contribute to the majority of commercial vehicle collisions. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), driver error accounts for nearly 90 percent of truck-related crashes. Highway 99 and Interstate 5 through Fresno see heightened accident rates due to concentrated truck traffic.
Common driver-related causes include:
- Speeding, which represents the single most common cause, with FMCSA data showing that approximately 32 percent of truck accidents involve excessive speed
- Driver fatigue from hours-of-service violations and pressure to meet unrealistic delivery schedules
- Distracted driving, including cell phone use and global-positioning-system adjustment
- Substance impairment, which occurs when drivers violate federal regulations prohibiting commercial operation with any detectable alcohol or controlled substances
Large trucks require significantly longer stopping distances than passenger vehicles, so an impaired driver’s reduced reaction time and judgment would lead to negative consequences. An attorney can investigate whether substance use or driver negligence contributed to a crash and hold drivers accountable.
Highway-Specific Risks
Highway 99 recorded 270 serious accidents and 123 fatalities in recent years, making it the deadliest stretch through Fresno County. Agricultural truck movements during peak seasons add unique regional risks. Drivers navigating tight schedules combined with heavy seasonal traffic contribute to elevated accident rates in the area.
What Common Equipment Problems Lead to Crashes?
Equipment failures represent another leading cause of commercial vehicle collisions, including those in the Fresno area. Studies show that mechanical problems are found in approximately 55 percent of trucks involved in crashes. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (49 CFR § 396) mandate regular inspections, but not all trucking companies comply.
Common equipment failures include:
- Brake failures that prevent trucks from slowing or stopping safely
- Tire blowouts from worn treads or improper inflation, causing loss of control
- Inadequate vehicle maintenance, including steering system and lighting failures
- Cargo loading issues where overloaded trucks or improperly secured loads affect stability
Some operators prioritize profits over safety, keeping poorly maintained vehicles on the road. However, unsecured cargo shifts during transit, altering the vehicle’s center of gravity.
Investigation and Liability
An experienced attorney will investigate whether improper loading or mechanical failures contributed to a collision. Modern trucks are equipped with electronic data recorders that capture speed, braking, and other critical information. This data, combined with maintenance records and inspection history, establishes whether mechanical failures caused the crash. Federal regulations (49 CFR § 392) require safe operation, providing the basis for liability.
Speak With a Lawyer About the Common Causes of Fresno Truck Crashes
When an injured individual needs help after one of the common causes of truck accidents in Fresno, the legal team at Valero Law Group will fight tirelessly for maximum compensation. Our firm’s lawyers handle cases on a contingency fee basis and only receive payment when the case is won.
Call for a consultation about your case, and let an experienced lawyer fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. Attorneys are always available to answer questions throughout the legal process.