Trucking accidents are a serious issue on California’s highways and interstates, leading to thousands of injuries and fatalities each year. Because of the size and weight of commercial trucks, the consequences of these accidents are often catastrophic.
At Hillstone Law, we fight to secure fair compensation for victims of trucking accidents. But beyond legal representation, we also believe that understanding the causes of these crashes is key to preventing them in the first place and making our roads safer for everyone.
Five Leading Causes of Trucking Accidents on the Interstate
1. Driver Fatigue
Fatigue remains one of the most dangerous factors in trucking accidents. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), about 13% of truck crashes involve a fatigued driver. Long hours behind the wheel slow reaction times and increase the risk of falling asleep while driving.
Even though federal regulations limit truck drivers to 11 hours of driving within a 14-hour workday followed by a 10-hour rest period, fatigue continues to plague the industry — especially when companies push drivers to meet tight deadlines.
2. Speeding
When an 80,000‑pound truck speeds, the results can be devastating. Speeding not only increases the likelihood of a crash but also amplifies the severity of the impact. Some trucking companies have implemented speed‑limiting technology to reduce this risk, but not all fleets use these safeguards.
3. Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is a growing problem across all vehicles, but for truck drivers, the stakes are even higher. In 2021, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported 3,552 deaths from distracted driving.
Common distractions include:
- Texting or using a mobile phone
- Adjusting GPS or radio settings
- Eating while driving
Additionally, truckers traveling across different states face unique challenges. For example, California allows motorcycle lane splitting, something drivers from other states may not expect. Lack of familiarity with these laws can cause dangerous distractions.
4. Substance Abuse
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol dramatically impairs judgment, reaction time, and motor skills. Unfortunately, substance abuse still contributes to many trucking accidents on American interstates.
The solution requires strict enforcement of zero‑tolerance policies, regular testing, and robust driver education programs. Protecting public safety begins with prioritizing the health and responsibility of commercial drivers.
5. Poor Vehicle Maintenance
Large commercial trucks need frequent and thorough maintenance to remain safe. Mechanical failures such as brake malfunctions, tire blowouts, or steering issues can quickly cause devastating crashes.
Routine inspections, timely repairs, and preventative part replacements are essential to reducing the risk of accidents. Negligence in this area puts everyone on the road in danger.
Protecting Your Rights After a Trucking Accident
The aftermath of a trucking accident can be life‑changing, often leaving victims with severe injuries, permanent disabilities, and overwhelming medical bills.
At Hillstone Law, we investigate every detail of your accident — from driver logs to maintenance records — to hold negligent parties accountable. Our goal is to secure maximum compensation for:
- Medical treatment and rehabilitation
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Long‑term care and future medical expenses
Free Consultation
If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident, you don’t have to face the battle alone. Contact Hillstone Law today for a free case evaluation and let our experienced trucking accident attorneys fight for the justice and financial recovery you deserve.
