What Is Considered A Commercial Motor Vehicle?

A Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) means a motor vehicle or combination of motor vehicles, used in commerce to transport passengers or property, having a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of greater than 26,000 pounds. However, most Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR) apply to vehicles with a GVWR greater than 10,000 pounds, depending on how the vehicle is used. In 2020, 72% of the trucks involved in fatal traffic crashes were big trucks with a GVWR greater than 26,000 pounds.

United States

In the U.S., in 2021, the number of big trucks involved in accidents causing injuries increased by 12% from 2020. In addition, the number of big trucks involved in accidents that resulted in death increased by 18% from 2020.

From 2019 to 2020, there was a 9% increase in the number of non-occupants (pedestrians, pedal cyclists, or other non-occupants) that were killed in big truck accidents in the U.S.

Big truck drivers had the highest percentage of crashes (21.3%) compared to drivers of other vehicle types (motorcycles, 20.5%; passenger cars, 19.7%; and lighter trucks, 17.3%).

Arkansas

Deaths from motor vehicle accidents: Motor vehicle deaths have been increasing since 2018, with 2021 seeing 731 motor vehicle deaths among Arkansas residents (683 in 2020).

In 2020, the percentage of big trucks involved in fatal crashes, as a proportion of all vehicles, was 9.9% in Arkansas.

When it comes to big truck accidents, in 2020, Arkansas was ranked the 3rd worst state, with 2.8 people per 100,000 people dying from large truck accidents. The only two states worse were Mississippi and Wyoming.

Potential causes that can explain the increase in
Truck Accident Occurrences
Substance Abuse
27.6% Of Truck Drivers Reported Using Drugs

Alcohol abuse and drug/substance misuse is a common occurrence among truck drivers. In a self-reported survey, 27.6% of truck drivers reported using drugs.

https://americanaddictioncenters.org/rehab-guide/truck-drivers

Fatigue
High Stress Work Hours Lead To Fatigue

Increases in high-stress work hours due to e-commerce and shipping/transporting growth have led to truck drivers operating while fatigued.

Danger
Arkansas Ranks 7th In States With Poorest Road Conditions

I-30, I-40, I-49, and I-540 are very dangerous interstates that run through Arkansas.

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If you are ever involved in an accident, the first thing to do is make sure everyone involved is accounted for and safe. Afterward, it is important to get to a safe area away from the road and wreck scene, since there are still fast-traveling vehicles and a chance of combustion from the wreck.
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When all people are safe and the scene is controlled, call 911 immediately for help. The police officers will be able to interview witnesses and make observations about the accident scene, which will later be used in the police report that can be helpful should you file a claim for compensation.
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It is important to consult an experienced truck accident lawyer as soon as you are able. Many commercial insurance companies will reach out to victims to pressure them into a lowball settlement. It is important not to sign any papers or admit any fault to them.

The Reed Firm and head attorney Tim Reed have vast experience helping distraught motor vehicle and truck accident victims gain the compensation they deserve while holding the responsible parties accountable for their actions.