Why Are Speeding Trucks More Likely To Cause Accidents? | IL

 Posted on August 31,2024 in Truck Accidents

Truckers often have tight delivery schedules, which may motivate them to break speed limits or drive faster than they should for road or weather conditions. While any speeding driver can cause an injury accident, large trucks have specific factors that increase the likelihood of crashes due to excess speed. Were you injured in a speeding truck collision? The knowledgeable lawyers at Salvi & Maher, LLP can help.

What Factors Make Speeding Trucks So Dangerous?

Did you know that a fully loaded semi can weigh 80,000 pounds? This is more than just an interesting fact; it is also a contributing factor to why speeding trucks often cause collisions.

Longer Stopping Distance

Although passenger vehicle weights vary, the average is around 4,000 pounds. Under ideal conditions, a car traveling at 65 mph needs approximately 316 feet to come to a stop. Under the exact same conditions, a fully loaded big rig traveling at the same speed needs around 525 feet to stop. Speeds higher than 65 mph mean the truck needs even more distance.

Traffic conditions can change quickly, and some scenarios require trucks to stop fast. If the driver is speeding, he may not have enough stopping space to avoid colliding with other vehicles.

Air Brakes

Most motorists are used to the hydraulic brake systems found in cars, SUVs, and pickup trucks. These brakes begin to slow vehicles as soon as the driver pushes the brake pedal. Large trucks, on the other hand, use air brakes. While these systems are more appropriate for a truck’s size and weight, there is a lag time between when the driver engages the brakes and the truck begins to decelerate.

On dry pavement, the lag distance for trucks traveling at 55 mph is around 32 feet. That means the truck will cover 32 feet before it begins to slow down. Even the most alert truck driver often cannot stop in time to miss hitting surrounding cars.

Reduced Control

Big trucks are harder to maneuver than cars at any speed, and excessive speeds make it even more challenging to control the rigs. Whether the driver changes lanes or navigates turns as part of normal driving or as a reaction to a hazardous condition, speeding may cause him to lose control of his truck.

Contact Our Skilled Lake County, IL Truck Accident Lawyers Today

If you were injured in a truck accident, the dedicated lawyers at Salvi & Maher, LLP can help you file your claim and fight to see that you get the maximum available settlement amount. With more than 85 years of combined experience and a long track record of successful case results, you can rely on us to handle your case effectively. Call us at 847-662-3303 for your free consultation with one of our diligent Waukegan, IL personal injury attorneys.