Tractor Trailer Crash Causes Chaos On Interstate 91

A tractor-trailer crashed into a fixed object on I-91 South in Hartford on January 19, 2023. According to the Department of Transportation (DOT), the crash backed up traffic for a mile due to the closing of the center and right lanes between exits 27 and 28. Fortunately, the crash did not cause any injuries. On the other hand, many people were stuck in traffic or delayed because they had to use alternate routes.

While this tractor-trailer crash did not result in any injuries, many crashes involving tractor-trailers have led to serious injuries, even death.

Common Causes Of Tractor Trailer Crashes

Tractor trailers are the most massive commercial vehicles (CMVs) that travel on interstate roads. They carry a wide variety of cargo and are usually known as big rigs, semi-trucks, or 18-wheelers. Because of their gigantic size, blind spots, and higher center of gravity (making them more susceptible to rollovers), tractor-trailers are the most dangerous type of commercial truck. Crashes involving tractor-trailers commonly occur due to the following:

• Driver Errors or Negligence – These include various careless and unsafe driving habits, such as:
  • Driver fatigue or drowsy driving
  • Distracted driving
  • Speeding
  • Road rage
  • Aggressive driving
  • Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
  • Tailgating
  • Unsafe lane changes
  • Ignoring traffic laws
  • Improper turns or not using turn signals
  • Not checking for blind spots
• Improper or Insufficient Driver Training – When truck drivers are improperly or inadequately trained or don’t have defensive driving skills, they endanger themselves and other people on the road.
• Overloaded Trucks – Trucks that carry too much weight for their load capacity can tip over because of excess weight or lead to tire blowouts. Some overloaded trucks also have debris that can fall off and impact other drivers.
• Inexperienced Drivers and Unfamiliarity With The Area – Truck drivers who are unfamiliar with new routes or don’t know how to navigate narrow, rough, bumpy, and curvy roads can easily lose control of the wheel, causing tragic consequences.
• Mechanical Problems or Poor Truck Maintenance – As with any other motor vehicle, mechanical issues or poor maintenance can lead to many problems. A massive tractor-trailer with malfunctioning brakes or worn-out tires, among others, can make a driver lose control of the truck and cause devastating crashes.
• Poor Road Conditions – Uneven roads and potholes can make driving hazardous when roads are improperly maintained. Additionally, unpaved roadways, very narrow roads, or those without shoulders can easily create dangerous conditions for tractor-trailers.
• Bad Weather Conditions – Rain, snow, fog, and ice can all impact a trucker’s ability to drive safely.

Talk To A Skilled Hartford Roadside Lawyer Today

An accident involving a tractor-trailer or any other truck, for that matter, can lead to catastrophic consequences for those involved. To consult with a Hartford roadside lawyer at Berman & Russo, set up a free case evaluation by calling 860-644-1548 or completing an online form.