A fully loaded semi truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds. That’s over 20 times the weight of your car.
So when something goes wrong on the road, the outcome is rarely minor.
In 2022, there were 5,936 fatalities involving large trucks in Utah, Idaho, and surrounding states, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Most of the people who died weren’t in the truck. They were in passenger vehicles. Truck accidents aren’t rare, and they’re not random. In most cases, they’re preventable.
If you’re wondering what causes truck accidents and how you can reduce your risk, you’re in the right place. We’ll break down the most common reasons these crashes happen and what steps you can take to stay safer on the road.
Let’s start with the facts.
The Most Common Causes of Truck Accidents
Truck accidents often occur due to a combination of driver behavior, mechanical failures, and poor road conditions. Below are the most common and preventable contributors.
Speeding and Reckless Driving
Speed limits exist for a reason. Large trucks take much longer to stop than cars. When drivers exceed posted limits or take sharp turns too quickly, they lose control more easily.
According to the FMCSA, speeding is the number one driver-related factor in fatal truck crashes. In 2023, speeding was a factor in over 29 percent of traffic fatalities.
What you can do:
If you notice a truck approaching quickly or weaving through lanes, avoid engaging with it. Move over and give them space.
Distracted Driving by Truck Drivers
Driving for long hours is exhausting. Many truck drivers turn to cell phones, onboard computers, food, or even books to break up the monotony. The FMCSA prohibits texting while driving; however, distractions still contribute to a high percentage of crashes.
What you can do:
If a truck is drifting or braking unpredictably, assume the driver may be distracted. Stay visible, avoid blind spots, and pass safely when possible.
Driver Fatigue
Truckers often work 10 to 14 hours at a time. Even with mandatory rest breaks, fatigue builds up. Tired drivers tend to react more slowly and make poorer decisions.
The FMCSA found that 13 percent of commercial vehicle drivers were fatigued at the time of a crash.
What you can do:
Suppose you see a truck that’s swerving, speeding, or braking late, back off. Give yourself plenty of room in case the driver falls asleep or overcorrects.
Poor Truck Maintenance Issues
Truck brakes and tires require regular maintenance and upkeep. When companies cut corners, parts fail. A crash study conducted by the FMCSA revealed that brake problems were present in nearly 30 percent of all large truck crashes.
What you can do:
Avoid driving near trucks with visibly worn tires, unsecured loads, or damaged parts. These are signs that the car may not be roadworthy.
Improper Cargo Loading
Unbalanced or overweight cargo can cause trucks to tip, swerve, or require longer stopping distances. Improperly secured loads can spill onto the roadway, creating hazards for everyone.
What you can do:
Steer clear of trucks carrying large or unusual loads, especially if straps or tarps look loose. If cargo shifts or falls, you don’t want to be nearby.
Weather Impacts on Truck Driving
Rain, snow, fog, and wind make it harder for trucks to stop or stay in their lane. High-profile vehicles are especially vulnerable to wind gusts. Ice and snow increase braking distance and reduce traction.
According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, approximately 77 percent of all vehicle crashes occur during mist or rain conditions, and trucks are more affected than passenger cars.
What you can do:
Slow down when conditions change. Maintain a safe distance between you and large trucks. Never assume the driver can see you through fog, rain, or blowing snow.
Inadequate Driver Training
Some companies rush new drivers onto the road without providing them with sufficient training. This can lead to errors during turns, backing up, or merging. Inexperienced drivers are more likely to panic in stressful situations.
What you can do:
Give extra room near trucks at intersections, ramps, and tight curves. Stay alert and avoid assuming that a truck driver sees you or will yield properly.
State-Specific Truck Crash Trends
In Utah, fatal truck crashes occurred on rural highways like US-6 and I-15. Idaho’s I-84 and Highway 95 see frequent truck crashes, particularly during the winter. Black ice and sudden snowstorms often catch truckers off guard.
Wyoming has one of the highest per-capita rates of truck crash fatalities in the country. Many of these crashes occur on I-80 during oil field traffic peaks or during extreme weather conditions.
Key takeaway: Be aware of the risks in your area. Use extra caution on highways with heavy freight traffic and limited visibility.
How You Can Avoid a Truck Accident
You can’t control truck drivers. But you can reduce your chances of being involved in a crash.
- Stay out of blind spots. If you can’t see the driver’s face in the mirror, they can’t see you.
- Never cut in front. Trucks take longer to stop. Cutting in too closely puts you at risk.
- Give space on turns. Trucks need wide clearance, especially when turning right.
- Pass with care. Always pass on the left. Don’t linger beside the trailer.
- Be weather-aware. Give extra space during rain, snow, or fog.
What To Do After a Truck Accident
If you’re involved in a truck crash, act quickly and protect yourself:
- Call 911. Even minor accidents need police documentation.
- Seek medical attention. Injuries can be delayed. Get checked even if you feel okay.
- Gather evidence. Take photos, write down details, and get witness information.
- Avoid talking to insurance. Don’t state without legal advice.
- Call a lawyer. Truck crash claims are complex. You need legal support fast.
Call Lowe Law Group if You Were Hurt in a Truck Accident
Truck crashes often involve more than just the driver. The trucking company, cargo loader, or maintenance contractor might be at fault. You need someone who understands how to investigate all the angles.
Lowe Law Group has helped people across Utah, Idaho, and surrounding states recover compensation after serious truck accidents. Our team is familiar with the causes of truck accidents. We fight to hold negligent drivers and companies accountable.
If you’ve been hurt in a truck crash, contact us today. Your consultation is free, and you pay nothing unless we successfully represent you in your case.
