Rising Fatalities in Truck Accidents

In this article we will go into detail on some of these factors that contribute to the growing number of truck accident fatalities on our highways.

2013-03-29

KANSAS CITY, MO, March 29, 2013 (Press-News.org) Regardless of whether you drive an SUV, pick-up truck, sedan or coupe, a personal vehicle will be on the losing end of a truck accident virtually every time. It's a simple matter of size and weight. Truck drivers operate a vehicle that poses an unbalanced risk to other drivers. Thus, the U.S. Department of Transportation is in the process of enacting more strict regulations for truck drivers and their parent companies.

Driver Beware

Most of us realize that when we see trucks on the road, it is always wise to drive with an abundance of caution. Unfortunately, some drivers engage in risky behavior such as cutting a truck off, unaware that trucks take much longer to slow down or come to a stop than other vehicles. This is also related to the massive weight of commercial trucks. Practicing extra caution on the road can help minimize your chances of being involved in a fatal accident.

Similarly, truck drivers need to understand the risk they pose to other drivers and exercise extra caution while on the road. Other drivers' risk increases when truck drivers are speeding, fatigued, abusing prescription drugs or alcohol, or if their vehicle is not properly maintained. Sadly, it is not uncommon for these factors to contribute to the cause of a truck accident. Because of this, individual drivers should be that much more cautious when sharing the road with trucks.

Truck Accident Fatalities are on the Rise

According to research conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, fatalities from truck accidents are on the rise by as much as 20%. New regulations and maintenance technology for the trucking industry aim to put a stop to this trend.

In closing, as non-commercial vehicle drivers, we need to be far more cautious when sharing the road with trucks. Take into account the increased risk of accidents, slower stopping times, and the complicating human factors mentioned above to help decrease your risk of experiencing a serious personal injury from a truck accident.

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