How Many Semi Truck Accidents Are Caused By Cars?

Writing By /
Brenton Armour
UX/UI Designer at - Adobe

Brenton Armour, the visionary founder and lead attorney at InjuryLawsuitHelper, boasts an impressive 15-year track record in personal injury law. His remarkable expertise spans cases...Read more

Every day, thousands of semi-trucks are on the road, transporting goods across the country. Unfortunately, accidents involving semi-trucks are all too common. While truck driver error is frequently cited as the cause of these accidents, many people wonder: how many semi-truck accidents are actually caused by cars?

The answer may surprise you. Despite the size and weight of semi-trucks, many accidents involving these vehicles are actually caused by passenger cars. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the data behind these accidents, and explore some of the reasons why cars are often to blame.

How Many Semi Truck Accidents Are Caused by Cars?

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), passenger cars are the primary cause of 75% of all semi-truck accidents. This is because cars are smaller and lighter than big rigs, making them more vulnerable to crashes. Additionally, drivers of passenger cars often underestimate the size and speed of semi-trucks, leading to dangerous driving behaviors such as cutting off trucks or tailgating.

How Many Semi Truck Accidents Are Caused by Cars?

How Many Semi Truck Accidents Are Caused by Cars?

Semi-trucks are massive vehicles that can weigh up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded. They are an essential part of our economy, transporting goods across the country. However, these large vehicles can be dangerous and can cause severe accidents. While semi-truck drivers are trained to operate their vehicles safely, they are not always at fault in accidents. In fact, many semi-truck accidents are caused by cars. In this article, we will explore how many semi-truck accidents are caused by cars.

Causes of Semi-Truck Accidents

Semi-truck accidents can be caused by several factors, including driver error, mechanical failure, and weather conditions. However, one of the most common causes of semi-truck accidents is other drivers on the road. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), 73% of all large truck accidents involve another vehicle. The most common causes of these accidents include:

  1. Unsafe lane changes: Cars often make unsafe lane changes, cutting off semi-trucks and causing accidents.
  2. Distracted driving: Drivers who are distracted by their phones or other activities are more likely to cause accidents.
  3. Speeding: Drivers who speed are more likely to lose control of their vehicles and cause accidents.
  4. Driving under the influence: Drivers who are under the influence of drugs or alcohol are more likely to cause accidents.

Statistics on Semi-Truck Accidents Caused by Cars

While the FMCSA reports that 73% of all large truck accidents involve another vehicle, it is challenging to determine precisely how many of these accidents are caused by cars. However, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) reports that passenger vehicles are most often at fault in accidents involving semi-trucks. According to their data, passenger vehicles were at fault in 81% of fatal accidents involving semi-trucks in 2018.

Additionally, the IIHS reports that there were 4,136 people killed in accidents involving large trucks in 2018. Of those fatalities, 67% were passenger vehicle occupants, while 16% were large truck occupants. The remaining fatalities were pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists.

The Impact of Semi-Truck Accidents Caused by Cars

Semi-truck accidents caused by cars can have devastating consequences. Due to the size and weight of semi-trucks, accidents involving these vehicles are more likely to result in serious injuries or fatalities. In addition, these accidents can cause significant damage to property and can result in long-term economic and emotional consequences for those involved.

Furthermore, semi-truck accidents can also have a significant impact on the trucking industry. Accidents can lead to increased insurance costs, lost productivity, and damage to a company’s reputation. As a result, many trucking companies invest heavily in safety training and equipment to reduce the risk of accidents caused by other drivers.

The Importance of Safe Driving Around Semi-Trucks

While semi-truck drivers are trained to operate their vehicles safely, other drivers on the road must also take precautions to avoid accidents. Some tips for safe driving around semi-trucks include:

  • Give semi-trucks plenty of space: Leave at least a four-second gap between your vehicle and a semi-truck.
  • Avoid blind spots: Semi-trucks have large blind spots on their sides and rear, so try to stay out of these areas.
  • Use turn signals: Make sure to use your turn signals when changing lanes or turning near a semi-truck.
  • Don’t cut off a semi-truck: Give semi-trucks plenty of room when passing or merging onto highways.

Conclusion

Semi-trucks are an essential part of our economy, but they can also be dangerous. While semi-truck accidents can be caused by several factors, other drivers on the road are often to blame. By taking precautions and driving safely around semi-trucks, we can help reduce the risk of accidents on our roads.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about semi truck accidents caused by cars.

What percentage of semi truck accidents are caused by cars?

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, about 75% of all semi truck accidents are caused by other vehicles on the road. This means that the majority of accidents involving semi trucks are not the fault of the truck driver.

Some common causes of car-caused semi truck accidents include distracted driving, speeding, and reckless driving. It’s important for all drivers to be aware of the risks involved when sharing the road with large commercial vehicles.

How can drivers avoid causing accidents with semi trucks?

One of the most important things drivers can do to avoid causing accidents with semi trucks is to be aware of their blind spots. These are areas around the truck where the driver cannot see other vehicles.

Drivers should also avoid cutting off semi trucks, as these vehicles need a lot of space to stop. Finally, it’s important to avoid distracted driving and to always obey traffic laws when sharing the road with semi trucks.

What are some common injuries sustained in semi truck accidents caused by cars?

Injuries sustained in semi truck accidents caused by cars can vary depending on the severity of the accident. Some common injuries include whiplash, broken bones, head and brain injuries, and spinal cord injuries.

In more severe accidents, drivers and passengers may sustain life-threatening injuries or even be killed. It’s important for all drivers to take the necessary precautions to avoid causing accidents with semi trucks.

Who is usually found at fault in semi truck accidents caused by cars?

In most cases, the driver of the car that caused the accident is found to be at fault. However, there are some cases where the truck driver may also share some of the blame.

For example, if the truck driver was speeding or driving while fatigued, they may be found partially responsible for the accident. It’s important for all drivers involved in semi truck accidents to work with their insurance companies and legal representation to determine fault and seek compensation for damages.

How can semi truck drivers avoid accidents caused by cars?

One of the most important things semi truck drivers can do to avoid accidents caused by cars is to maintain a safe following distance. This will give them enough time to stop or maneuver around other vehicles if necessary.

Semi truck drivers should also be aware of their own blind spots and take care to avoid changing lanes or making turns when other vehicles are in these areas. Finally, it’s important for truck drivers to stay alert and focused on the road at all times.

In conclusion, the number of semi-truck accidents caused by cars cannot be overlooked. While it is true that semi-truck drivers have a responsibility to drive safely, it is equally important for car drivers to be aware of their surroundings and drive responsibly as well.

It is crucial for drivers to understand the potential danger of driving near semi-trucks and take precautions to avoid accidents. This includes giving them plenty of space, avoiding blind spots, and being aware of their movements on the road.

Ultimately, reducing the number of semi-truck accidents caused by cars requires a joint effort from both truck drivers and car drivers. By working together and taking responsibility for our actions on the road, we can improve overall road safety and reduce the number of accidents on our highways.

Brenton ArmourUX/UI Designer at - Adobe

Brenton Armour, the visionary founder and lead attorney at InjuryLawsuitHelper, boasts an impressive 15-year track record in personal injury law. His remarkable expertise spans cases from minor injuries to devastating accidents, earning him a sterling reputation as a trusted and passionate advocate for justice. Brenton's unwavering dedication to his clients has cemented his position as a sought-after personal injury attorney.

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