Which of the following is a primary cause of truck accidents?

Driver fatigue is a primary cause of truck accidents because it significantly impacts a driver's ability to operate a vehicle safely. When a driver is fatigued, their reaction times are slower, decision-making abilities are impaired, and their attentiveness diminishes. This can lead to dangerous situations such as drifting out of the lane, failing to react in time to changing road conditions or obstacles, and even falling asleep at the wheel.

In the context of commercial driving, where vehicles are often larger and heavier than standard cars, the consequences of driver fatigue can be particularly severe. The sheer size of trucks means that accidents involving them can lead to catastrophic results. Regulations and best practices, such as mandated rest periods and limiting driving hours, have been implemented to combat fatigue among drivers, underscoring its significance as a risk factor in road safety.

While weather conditions, mechanical failures, and road surface issues like potholes can also contribute to accidents, the inherent risks associated with fatigue in a commercial driving context make it a critical factor requiring ongoing attention and management.