According to data collected in a report by the National Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the number of fatalities resulting from truck crashes increased by 4 percent between 2014 and 2015. Overall traffic deaths increased over the same time period by 7.7 percent.

While the reasons for the increase in fatalities are still unclear,  the report also cited data from the Federal Highway Administration (FWHA) showing that drivers traveled 3.5 percent more miles in 2015 than they did in 2014. Presumably, as drivers spend more time on the road, the likelihood increases that they will be involved in a crash. 

While the increase in driving could be attributed to cheap gas prices and an improved economy, human error may also be playing a role. It remains to be seen to what extent emerging new technologies like automatic braking systems, intended to prevent traffic accidents, will be effective in reducing fatalities from truck and other motor vehicle accidents. 

Truck accidents have the potential to cause devastating injuries that require costly long-term medical interventions. Furthermore, in an accident involving a truck, it's usually the driver of the other car that suffers the greatest injuries, because of the much greater size and weight of trucks as compared to passenger cars, motorcycles or other vehicles on the road. If you or someone you love has been injured in an accident involving a truck, an experienced personal injury lawyer can help you secure the compensation you will need to pay for medical bills, lost wages and other expenses.