Common Causes Of Commercial Motor Vehicle Accidents

In order to drive a commercial motor vehicle (CMV), a person must meet stringent standards, but this does not mean that they are immune from engaging in negligent behavior. While road accidents can happen for a variety of different reasons, the fact remains that if a CMV driver is negligent, they and their employer may wind up on the proverbial hook for money damages if the negligence leads to injury. Some of the most common causes of CMV crashes can be traced directly to the driver of a CMV, or to the entity that owns the vehicle.

Better Legislation Leads To Fewer Accidents

The most recent available statistics on CMV accidents are from 2015 – some years ago, but it is worth noting the trends, regardless. While there was a drop in the overall number of accidents involving CMVs in the decade studied, the number of CMV crashes in Florida went up by almost 10 percent. This was, however, largely before the beginning of concerted road safety campaigns, which have played a role in reducing the overall number of road accidents in the state.

Another key factor that has helped to reduce the number of CMV accidents is the proliferation of texting and driving bans. Texting and driving, and other forms of distracted driving, have been shown to cause significant amounts of highway fatalities, but bans only began to be enacted within the last five years. Despite this, there are other causes of CMV accidents that remain persistent.

Who Is Liable?

In analyzing the cause of a CMV accident, some of the most frequently seen are traceable to the driver’s actions. For example, a CMV driver might be using drugs or alcohol behind the wheel, or engage in reckless driving behaviors like speeding. They are required to abide by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)’s Hours of Service, and a failure to do so may be the direct cause of an auto accident.

In addition to the driver’s negligence, there are some situations in which the owner or operator of the commercial motor vehicle may be held liable as well. For example, if the CMV is poorly maintained, and it played a role in the accident, the vehicle’s owner may be held liable for their failure to properly keep the vehicle in working order. Each case is different, but with the right legal help, you have a better chance at recovering the damages you deserve.

Contact A Tampa Commercial Motor Vehicle Accident Attorney

Being in an accident with a CMV can be a frightening event, given the size and speed at which a commercial motor vehicle often travels. If you have been injured in a CMV crash, a Tampa commercial motor vehicle accident attorney from the Rinaldo Law Group can help protect your rights and give you the best chance at compensation. Contact our office today for a free consultation.

Source:

fmcsa.dot.gov/sites/fmcsa.dot.gov/files/docs/Jack-Van-Steenburg-TRB%20Trends%20in%20CMV%20Safety-1-10-2017-508C.pdf