Truckers are crucial to the U.S. economy, transporting goods across long distances. However, like any road user, truckers can face situations that might increase the risk of accidents, which is an economic drain.
Truckers, who often work under challenging conditions, must always prioritize safety to mitigate the hazards associated with these large and heavy rigs.
Distractions for truck drivers
For truckers, the long hours on the road can lead to a reliance on things like mobile phones, GPS devices or radios for entertainment and communication, which can divert attention from the road. Eating or drinking while driving, another common scenario during long hauls can also be a distraction. Since trucks require more time and distance to stop due to their size and weight, even a momentary distraction can lead to dangerous situations.
Fatigue from long driving hours
Truckers often have demanding schedules, requiring them to drive for extended periods. Although there are regulations to ensure rest periods, the time spent on the road can lead to tiredness. Fatigue impairs judgment, slows reaction times, and can even lead to falling asleep at the wheel. This is particularly risky for truck drivers, given the potential severity of an accident involving a large vehicle.
Rushing to meet deadlines
The pressure to meet deadlines set by trucking companies can also contribute to crashes. This pressure might prompt some drivers to exceed speed limits or drive in adverse weather conditions to stay on schedule. Speeding in a large semitruck is especially dangerous due to the increased braking distance and the reduced control over the vehicle.
Other factors contributing to crashes
Several other factors can contribute to crashes involving trucks. These include improper loading of cargo, which can lead to unbalanced or shifting loads affecting the truck’s stability and maneuverability. Proper maintenance can lead to mechanical failures, such as brake malfunctions or tire blowouts. Insufficient training or experience in handling a large vehicle can also be a factor, as driving a semitruck requires specific skills and knowledge about its operation and limitations.
Victims of semitruck crashes often suffer serious injuries, which can be costly to treat. Seeking compensation for their financial damages is possible if a wreck was caused by another, but this can quickly become a complex undertaking. As such, obtaining legal guidance is beneficial in these cases.
