No matter when or where you take to the road in the state of Montana, it is likely that you will be surrounded by trucks from time to time. This is particularly true if you make your way onto one of the state’s many interstates.

As the driver of a passenger vehicle, the last thing you want is to increase the likelihood of being involved in a truck accident. For this reason, you should act responsibly and drive defensively at all times.

Some of the most common reasons for a truck accident include:

— Distracted driving

— Impaired driving

— Improper vehicle maintenance

— Inadequate training

— Incentives that encourage truckers to spend more hours on the road or drive at an unsafe speed

— Unrealistic schedules

The above reasons place fault on the truck driver and/or his or her trucking company. While there is nothing you can do about these things, you can control your own activity while on the road. This includes things such as maintaining a safe following distance and never driving in a truck’s blind spot.

Being aware of common truck accident causes can go a long way in helping you avoid trouble while on the roadway. There are times when a trucker makes a mistake that results in damage, serious injury, and even death. There are also times when you can take steps to improve your safety.

If you were injured due to the negligence of a trucker or trucking company, you have the right to learn more about laws in your state that protect your well being.

Source: FindLaw, “Common Reasons for Truck Accidents” Nov. 11, 2014