Weather affects every driver. Commercial trucks face distinct hazards due to various factors that are inherently different from traditional vehicles. This can include weight, length, cargo dynamics, stopping distance, elevated center of gravity, air brake response and reduced maneuverability. These physical realities can impact liability analysis after a crash, including whether the carrier, driver, broker, shipper, maintenance provider or loading contractor met applicable duties of care.
Why trucks respond differently than passenger vehicles
A passenger vehicle can often brake, steer or accelerate out of trouble faster than a tractor trailer. A vehicle loaded with thousands of pounds of freight takes longer to maneuver. Adverse weather conditions magnify the gap.
Key differences can include:
- Longer stopping distances due to reduced friction margin on wet, icy or slushy pavement
- Increased wind sensitivity, trailer swing and rollover risk for high profile loads
- Reduced visibility from spray, road grime, fog and glare on wet pavement
- Cargo shift risk, jackknife risk and load securement stress under sudden braking
- Air brake lag, brake fade risk on grades and traction loss under heavy braking
These differences matter because reasonable conduct for a commercial driver is different from expectations of those driving typical passenger vehicles. These massive trucks often require earlier speed reduction and increased following distance for safe operations.
Common weather conditions that impact commercial trucks
Truck drivers and trucking companies know that bad weather can create predictable issues when driving. Some of the most common that drivers must address in Alabama include the risk of hydroplaning and reduced braking response as well as visibility issues when there is rain. Drivers in this area can also expect to navigate high winds which can cause instability for large commercial trucks.
Practical legal takeaway for claims evaluation
Weather conditions are an important factor to consider when reviewing the aftermath of a commercial truck accident. Those injured in these accidents are wise to take this into account and question whether the driver was operating with care considering the conditions. A failure to do so can support a case to hold the driver and, depending on the details of the accident, the commercial trucking company or other related parties financially accountable for the cost of the accident through a negligence claim.