Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Lafayette, LA

No matter how safe a driver you may be, you never know when an accident may occur. Louisiana sees thousands of auto accidents every year, many of which involve large trucks that cause devastating damage. It’s important to understand the risks of sharing the road with trucks and common causes of truck accidents in Lafayette, LA, to better protect yourself while driving and to ensure you’re prepared if you’re ever involved in one.

The Severity of Louisiana Truck Accidents

While any auto accident can be a scary experience, truck accidents tend to involve severe injuries and serious damage because of the sheer size of the vehicles involved. Unfortunately, many drivers forget that trucks cannot speed up, slow down, or turn as fast as the average car. This means they cannot avoid reckless drivers, hazards, or other obstacles on the road as quickly as a small vehicle.

There were a total of 3,721 truck crashes reported in Louisiana in 2024 and another 1,783 so far in 2025. While these numbers are trending down from the past five years, truck accidents still pose a big risk to Louisiana residents. Whether a truck driver accidentally nods off or a tractor-trailer loses a tire after being on the road for too long, deadly accidents can occur in an instant, and it’s important that you stay vigilant on the road.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Lafayette and Across Louisiana

Truck accidents can be the result of any number of incidents and conditions on the road, so it’s crucial to practice constant vigilance when you’re driving near large vehicles. Generally speaking, the primary causes of all truck accidents fall under:

    • Driver-Related Causes: Some of the most common causes of truck accidents can be attributed to negligent or reckless driver behaviors. Distracted driving and fatigued driving are among the biggest issues truck drivers face. A recent study on truckers indicated that 82.9% of participants work more than 10 hours a day, which includes lengthy periods of time on the road. Without proper rest, these drivers can quickly become liabilities on the road. This is especially true when driving a truck.Speeding is another leading factor in truck accidents. Higher speeds can already lead to more serious injuries, but things can get even worse when trucks are involved. Due to their large size, these vehicles are harder to move and to stop. Reacting quickly isn’t as simple in a truck, so it’s wise to exercise caution when driving around them.
    • Environmental Causes: Road and weather conditions in Louisiana can also have a serious impact on road safety. It’s wise to check weather conditions before driving and to be prepared for inclement weather along your journey. Always be cautious when driving in:
      • Fog
      • High winds
      • Icy conditions
      • Rain
      • Snow

      High winds can be especially detrimental for trucks because of their larger surface area. Strong gusts can take the back end of trucks out from under them, and it can be difficult to get it back under control.

      It’s more difficult to avoid poor road conditions, but it does help to be aware of them. Deficient roads are more dangerous to drive on, which can increase the risk of accidents. Plus, they can take a toll on your vehicle over time, too. Recent reports show that drivers in Lafayette pay around $2,600 a year in vehicle fees due to the deteriorating roads.

    • Vehicle-Related Causes: In some cases, you may have grounds to file against the manufacturers of the truck parts or the vehicle itself—as long as you can prove that a problem with the truck caused the accident. Poor maintenance can also lead to issues with a truck, which in turn can cause an accident. It’s important to keep your vehicle up to date, so you can avoid these risks.

FAQs

Can I File a Truck Accident Claim in Louisiana If I Am Partially At Fault?

Louisiana is a comparative fault state, which means you can file a claim to recover damages even if you were found partially at fault for an accident. With that said, your settlement amount is going to be reduced by your percentage of fault in the incident. It’s important to present enough evidence to prove the other party’s fault, so you can secure the maximum amount of compensation. You should hire a truck accident lawyer who can help you build a strong claim.

How Can a Lafayette Truck Accident Attorney Help With My Claim?

A skilled Lafayette truck accident attorney can evaluate your case, help you collect powerful evidence, file your claim, and negotiate with insurers on your behalf. They can also represent you in court if your case has to go through litigation. Working with an experienced attorney when filing a truck accident claim gives you the strongest chance of obtaining the compensation you deserve.

What Is the Most Common Cause of Truck Accidents in Lafayette?

You’re at risk of being in an accident any time you’re on the road, but certain circumstances can increase the odds. Some of the most common causes of truck accidents in Lafayette include driver-related factors like distracted driving, fatigue, and speeding.

Who Can I File a Truck Accident Claim Against in Lafayette?

You may be able to file a truck accident claim in Lafayette against more than one party after a truck accident. Most commonly, victims file a claim against the other driver. However, they may also be able to file against other third parties if they were directly involved. For example, you may have grounds to file a claim against a vehicle manufacturer if a defect caused the accident. You also may be able to file against a business if you were hit by a company truck.

Hire a Truck Accident Attorney Local to Lafayette

Chris Villemarette, Trial Lawyer, has been practicing personal injury law since 1994, giving him over three decades of legal experience. He can help you through every phase of your case, from collecting evidence of negligence to negotiating with aggressive insurance companies. If you’re ready to discuss your case, contact the office to schedule an appointment with a trusted Lafayette truck accident attorney today.