What Can Cause Truck Drivers to Lose Control of their Vehicle?

Large truck on highway
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When driving in Pennsylvania, you may find you have to often share the road with large trucks and big rigs. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), 82 percent of fatalities from truck-related accidents are caused by other drivers rather than the driver of the truck. While sharing the road with larger trucks can be frightening, it often helps to be knowledgeable about the best ways to stay safe in these situations.

Most Common Causes of Truck Drivers Losing Control

Although some causes may be out of the driver's control, there are many things truck drivers can do that may result in losing control of their vehicle, including:

  • Driving drowsy or tired
  • Lack of maintenance
  • Driving under the influence
  • Equipment malfunction
  • Improperly loaded cargo
  • Speeding
  • Inadequate training
  • Tire blowouts

How to Tell If a Truck Driver is Losing Control of the Wheel

Knowing the telltale signs of a truck driver losing control of their vehicle is essential when preventing an unwanted collision. Some of the most common warning signs may include:

  • Wobbling or unstable tires
  • Tilting trailer
  • Sunning over the rumble strips
  • Fishtailing, drifting, or swerving
  • Going toward runaway truck areas
  • Braking but not slowing down

In instances where are driving and experience a truck displaying many of these signs, it's best to keep a safe distance and call 911 immediately.

Contact an Attorney

Being involved in a truck-related accident can be detrimental and leave victims facing numerous life-changing injuries. If you or someone you know has been involved in a truck-related accident, you should consider working with an attorney, as you may be owed financial compensation. After an accident, you should be able to take all the time you need to properly heal without worrying about the legal aspects of your accident. Let us handle it for you. Here at Hanna Allen, PLLC, we have a team of experienced truck attorneys who have what it takes to get you the justice you deserve.

Contact us today at or visit us online to schedule a free consultation with a member of our team.