18 wheelers are a serious force on the highway. Just their size alone is enough for any other car on the road to try to stay clear. But the dangers of 18 wheelers go way beyond size. Drivers should vigilantly search for any trucks that may be approaching their vehicles while on the road.

Every year, more than 500, 000 trucking accidents occur in the United States. Around 1,000 of these accident result in fatalities. While these trucks are vital to a flourishing economy, they are among the greatest highway threats to the average driver. In fact, 18 wheeler traffic accidents account for one of every eight traffic deaths.

What Causes 18 Wheeler Accidents?

Most people are aware of the fact that these trucks are dangerous, but the reasons why are more than is evident by simply looking at them. Common causes of truck accidents include:

• Huge blind spots-truck drivers cannot see drivers that are right next to them. This is why drivers should pass trucks as fast and safely as possible. Never drive next to them for a continuous period of time. There should always be a safe amount of space between a truck and a regular car while on the highway.

• Brake failure-the size and incredible weight load of trucks puts incredible and constant strain on their brakes. If a truck's brakes are not inspected and tuned before every major trip, there is a good likelihood that they might give out at any given time while driving.

• Debris or truck contents flying out-trucks that are carrying animals, rocks, or coal and have openings in the containers, often have small things flying out of the containers that can become dangerous projectiles as they hurtle towards other cars.

• Tire blowouts and separation-trucks put thousands of miles on their tires on every trip. The mileage plus the weight put on the tires results in many tire blowouts and separations. This can easily lead to loss of control of the truck which is already innately difficult to maneuver.

• Driver fatigue-truck drivers are typically paid by the trip and not the hour. Therefore, truck drivers try to make trips in the shortest amount of time possible. This often means driving through the night and with little or no sleep for many days. An overly tired driver can be as equally dangerous as an intoxicated one.

For more information on 18 wheeler accidents, visit Green Bay area attorneys.