It is not unusual for motorists to encounter large trucks during their travels, but things get out of control when those truckers practice poor driving behaviors. This can easily lead to a devastating truck accident, especially when tractor-trailers and smaller passenger vehicles are involved.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) describes aggressive driving as dangerous on-the-road behaviors. Examples include running traffic lights and signs, speeding, not using turn signals, tailgating, and weaving through traffic. It can also involve cutting off other vehicles. When truck drivers do these things, the risk factor for collisions can be much more significant. This is because these large vehicles’ sheer size and weight mean that they have longer stopping distances and larger blind spots.
The NHTSA also reports that almost 50 percent of accidents are caused by actions that fall within their definition of aggressive driving, which is common enough to cause significant concern. In addition, the National Safety Council claims that 94 percent of motor vehicle crashes result from driver actions.
Truck drivers might be more prone to driving aggressively because they are responsible for meeting strict pickup and delivery times; when delays occur, they can be pressured not to be late. They might be fatigued from driving long hours, experiencing other stresses, or driving under the influence. Traffic jams and poor weather conditions can also make drivers frustrated and aggressive.
How Can I Prove That an Aggressive Truck Driver Caused My Accident?
You would have to prove negligence to seek financial damages from a truck driver, trucking company, or another party like a truck manufacturer. The defendant might be the truck driver, but it could also be their employer. This is about showing that they failed to use reasonable care, and most types of aggressive driving generally fall into this category. If a traffic law or regulation was violated, that could be used as evidence in your case.
As a plaintiff, you must also show that the collision was a direct, foreseeable result of the alleged aggressive driving. Negligence claims must also prove that the action led to the plaintiff’s injuries, property damages, and financial and non-financial damages. That last category includes pain and suffering.
Trucking companies can also be charged with negligence in some of these cases. They may be held accountable if they fail to vet the truck driver during onboarding. One example includes overlooking a history that showed aggressive driving. The company could be held indirectly liable for the driver’s aggressive actions in these instances.
Our Washington DC Truck Accident Lawyers at the Law Offices of Duane O. King Help Clients Seek Justice
If an aggressive truck driver injures you, our skilled Washington DC truck accident lawyers at the Law Offices of Duane O. King can help. To schedule a free consultation, call 202-331-1963 or complete our online form. Located in Washington, D.C., Alexandria, and Falls Church, Virginia, we serve clients in Prince George’s County, including Laurel, Beltsville, Adelphi, College Park, Greenbelt, Mitchellville, Woodmore, Greater Upper Marlboro, Springdale, Largo, Bowie, Capitol Heights, District Heights, Forestville, Suitland, Seat Pleasant, Clinton, Oxon Hill, Temple Hills, and Fort Washington.
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