Commercial truck crashes have risen in recent years, raising concerns about road safety. Several factors contribute to this troubling trend.
Understanding the reasons behind the surge in commercial truck accidents is necessary for implementing safety measures and preventing future tragedies.
1. Rising demand for freight transportation
A key factor driving the increase in commercial truck crashes is the growing demand for freight transportation. With e-commerce booming and consumer expectations for fast delivery rising, there is immense pressure on the trucking industry to transport goods. This heightened demand often leads to overworked drivers, tight delivery schedules and increased risks of accidents on the road.
2. Driver fatigue and hours-of-service violations
Driver fatigue is a common issue in the trucking industry. It is also a leading cause of accidents. Long hours behind the wheel, irregular sleep schedules and demanding delivery deadlines can all contribute to driver fatigue. Despite regulations governing hours of service, some drivers and trucking companies violate these rules to meet delivery targets. This puts themselves and other road users at risk of accidents caused by fatigue-related impairment.
3. Inadequate training and experience
Another factor contributing to the rise in commercial truck crashes is inadequate training and experience. Operating a commercial truck requires specialized skills and knowledge. However, some drivers may receive insufficient training before hitting the road. Inexperienced drivers may struggle to handle large vehicles in various road and weather conditions, increasing the likelihood of accidents due to errors or lack of proper judgment.
According to Forbes, commercial truck crashes increased by 26% between 2020 and 2021. Addressing contributing factors warrants collaborative efforts from industry stakeholders, policymakers and regulatory agencies.
