You have good reason to be wary around large trucks while driving around Texas. Being around 20 times heavier than the average Passenger Vehicle, big rigs can cause a lot of damage in a crash. It helps to know what the five most common causes of crashes are to help you avoid collisions.

Driver error and lack of maintenance

The leading cause is Driver error, and studies show that around 81% of truck accidents are due to passenger vehicle driver errors. These errors can include speeding, DUI, drowsy driving and distracted driving.

Another frequently reported factor in crashes is poor vehicle maintenance. This is more often the fault of truck drivers, who are required to follow more regulations. Before every shift, for example, truckers must inspect their rig and fill out a maintenance report. Without this, they may let worn brake pads or another issue turn them into a road hazard. Third, truckers may crash on account of defective equipment.

Bad weather and poor cargo loading

Inexperienced truckers may drive too fast for weather conditions and wind up hydroplaning or jackknifing. In addition, trucks are known to tip over or to spill their cargo on the road because of improperly loaded or secured cargo. Cargo loaders have industry-specific rules to follow in this regard.

Seriously injured victims may file a claim

Truck collisions can leave victims with catastrophic injuries that temporarily or permanently disable them. Perhaps this is what you’re dealing with at the moment. You may want a lawyer to help you file your claim against the trucking company or the trucker’s insurance provider. If the lawyer successfully negotiates a settlement, you might be covered for your past and future medical costs, lost income, pain and suffering and whatever else applies.