Truck accident statistics from across Minnesota

Semi-truck accidents are a serious threat to people in Minnesota because tall, heavy vehicles are more likely to injure people in smaller and lighter vehicles around them. When a passenger car collides with a semi-truck, it’s far more likely that those in the passenger car will be seriously injured or even killed in the crash.

There are many different reasons why these accidents happen. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) notes that driver experience and training levels may play a role, for example, suggesting that poorly trained or inexperienced drivers are more likely to cause accidents. Weather conditions can also play a part. But some of the biggest causes are things like fatigued driving from truck drivers who are on a tight schedule, impaired driving from those who have been using alcohol or other drugs or speeding as truck drivers try to quickly reach their destinations. Most accidents happen because of some type of driver error.

The scope of the issue in Minnesota

Per the state’s Department of Public Safety, there were more than 3,000 people involved in accidents with trucks in Minnesota in 2022 alone. The Department of Public Safety breaks truck accident activity down into various categories, depending on the type of truck in use. Highlights from this categorization include:

1. Trucks with trailers were involved in fatal accidents that took the life of three drivers. Six more people sustained serious injuries in these accidents, while 29 people incurred minor injuries. Beyond that, there were possible injuries to 31 more individuals.
2. Under the category of “truck semi trailer”, there were four fatalities, eight serious injuries and 59 minor injuries. There were an additional 51 possible injuries, bringing it up to a total of 118 for the year.
3. Trucks with double trailers were involved in accidents as well, but they only resulted in minor injuries to one individual. These trucks are less common than the other types noted above.

It’s clear that truck accidents are a risk that drivers must contend with. Trucks are responsible for an incredible amount of shipping in the United States, and most drivers will encounter multiple trucks every single day. Those who are involved in accidents that lead to injuries or the death of a loved one need to know about their options by seeking legal guidance accordingly. These crashes can be life-altering, but there is often recourse available for victims.