How the Rise in Aggressive Driving Behaviors Is Driving Up Truck Accident Rates in the Lone Star State
According to a report from the National Safety Council (NSC), the annual number of fatal commercial truck accidents has consistently risen over the last decade. In 2023, more than 5,000 semis, 18-wheelers, tractor-trailers, and big rigs were involved in some type of fatal crash, up nearly 10% from the previous year. The NSC reports a net increase of 43% more fatal truck accidents over the last 10 years.
To what extent has the increase in truck accident fatalities been a consequence of increasingly aggressive driving by truckers, including speeding? What does recent crash data look like, and what are the legal implications?
The Perceived Increase in Road Rage and Aggressive Driving—Is It Real?
In a report published in 2020, the Texas Department of Insurance, Division of Workers’ Compensation, noted “an increase in aggressive driving … and a sharp decline in civility and respect for other motorists and traffic laws.” The report identified the following as examples of aggressive driving:
- Speeding
- Tailgating
- Running red lights or stop signs
- Passing vehicles on the wrong side of the road
- Weaving in and out of traffic
- Cutting off another driver
- Changing lanes without signaling
- Blocking other cars that attempt to pass
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported in 2023 that nearly 12,000 people were killed nationwide in motor vehicle accidents caused by motorists who were speeding.
What Are the Common Causes of Aggressive Driving by Truckers?
The factor most often cited as an incentive for aggressive driving by truckers is their compensation. Generally, truck drivers are compensated per shipment, being paid upon completion of each job. As a consequence, there’s an incentive to complete assignments quickly and earn more money by taking more jobs. This often leads to long hours on the road, as well as a tendency to push the speed limit. Sleep deprivation can also lead to short tempers and anti-social behavior.
Truck Crash Rates Up in Recent Years
In addition to the increase in the number of fatal truck crashes over the last 10 years, fatal truck accidents now also account for a greater percentage of all motor-vehicle fatalities. In 2021 alone, commercial trucks were involved in 3% more fatal accidents per million miles driven than in 2020.
In the aftermath of a fatal commercial truck accident, surviving family members may have civil recourse for damages in a wrongful death lawsuit. In such cases, the court may award compensation for loss of support, loss of companionship and consortium, loss of guidance and care, loss of inheritance, loss of household services, and mental anguish. In limited situations, survivors may even be able to pursue punitive damages.
Contact the Effective DFW Truck Injury Attorneys at Bailey & Galyen
At Bailey & Galyen, with offices throughout Texas, we bring more than 40 years of proven experience to people across the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex who have suffered loss because of the negligence of others. We have a thorough knowledge and understanding of the common causes of truck accidents in Texas, including crashes caused by speeding or other acts of aggressive driving. We know the right steps to take to help you pursue full and fair compensation for your losses.
Contact us by email or call our offices at one of the convenient locations listed below to arrange an appointment with a proven Texas truck accident lawyer. Our phones are answered 24 hours a day, seven days a week.