When are Trucking Accidents Most Likely to Happen?

A catastrophic trucking accident can happen anytime and anywhere on roads and highways across Georgia and across the country. According to the Georgia Department of Transportation, there were 1,065 traffic fatalities in Georgia through October 19, 2015, up from 943 deaths during the same period in 2014.

The dangers of a fatigued or distracted truck driver, a poorly maintained truck, or improperly secured cargo can cause a big-rig accident early in the morning or late at night.

But statistics compiled by the federal government reveal some interesting facts about when fatal truck accidents are most likely to occur. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) conducted a study which broke down tractor-trailer accidents by time of day and day of the week.

Most Accidents Happen During the Day

The FMCSA study found that for 2013, most trucking accidents occurred during the day (between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.). Of the 3,541 fatal truck crashes that year, 2,337 of them (64%) happened during daytime. Similarly, 77.8% of injury causing big-rig accidents and a full 81.2% of property damage-only truck accidents occurred while the sun was up.

Nighttime Statistics

The FMCSA also found that in 2013, the following percentage of trucking accidents occurred at night (between 6:00 pm and 6:00 a.m.):

• 34% of all fatal crashes
• 22% of all injury crashes
• 19% of all property damage only crashes

Weekdays are the Worst

Unsurprisingly, the larger number of cars and trucks on the road during the workweek significantly increase the odds of a tractor-trailer accident. Specifically:

• 84% of fatal crashes involving large truck occurred on weekdays
• 89% of nonfatal crashes involving large trucks occurred on weekdays

Whether it’s the sun or the moon that is shining above you as you drive down the highway, the risk of being involved in a trucking accident is always present if you are driving in close proximity to a big-rig. Exercise caution at all times, day or night.

The Parian Law Firm – Metro Atlanta Trucking Accident Law Firm

At The Parian Law Firm in metro Atlanta, know how devastating a tractor-trailer accident can be and have extensive experience and a track record of success obtaining compensation for those who have been injured or lost a loved one in a big rig accident. Please contact us at (770) 727-5550 or chat live online with a member of our staff today.