You need to keep an eye out for many risks on the road, such as bad weather and drivers who go over the speed limit. However, negligent truck drivers are especially dangerous and accidents involving trucks often result in serious injuries and even death. From trucker fatigue to distractions and inexperience, these accidents occur for various reasons.
It is important to take a look at statistics on these collisions so you can understand the prevalence of injuries and deaths due to truck collisions.
The impact of large truck accidents
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration says that in 2018, deadly traffic accidents involved 5,096 large trucks and buses. Furthermore, the number of injury accidents involving these vehicles increased significantly between 2009 and 2018. In 2009, 60,000 injury accidents involving large trucks and buses occurred, but this increased to 121,000 for 2018.
When victims lose their lives in truck accidents, they often leave behind loved ones who never recover from the emotional pain (or the financial consequences of the accident, in some instances). Moreover, if you sustain a serious injury in a truck accident, you could lose the ability to work and struggle with physical pain and medical expenses.
Other statistics on large truck crashes
The FMCSA reports that a majority of fatal and nonfatal large truck accidents occurred during the week in 2018 (Monday through Friday). Over the course of 2018, law enforcement received reports of roughly 499,000 large truck accidents.
If you are struggling with the aftermath of a large truck accident, make sure you examine all of your options and focus on moving forward.