Truck drivers have a vital role in fueling the country’s economy by transporting goods and materials from point A to point B. The immense size of their vehicles is designed to carry as much product as possible, but this immense size creates a lot of limitations for the vehicle and requires great skill by the driver to be able to handle the vehicle safely. 
Even then, accidents can still occur for a number of possible reasons. However, by taking consistent precautions, drivers can reduce the chances of traffic accidents occurring.
Ways truck drivers can prevent accidents
- Truck Maintenance: Like any vehicle, trucks require regular maintenance critical to keeping truckers and others safe on the road. Should any system fail 一 be it the brakes, tires, engine, or any number of others 一 there’s a significant chance that it will result in an accident. Truckers need to inspect their trucks regularly and fix any damage that could result in a mechanical failure.
- Allow Time for Breaks and Rest: Driving fatigued can have similar effects to driving while impaired and increases the chances of mistakes being made. Exhaustion can result in driver inattention, which can result in careless missteps. Even short breaks can alleviate the discomfort that results from prolonged sitting and rejuvenate the mind. For similar reasons, truck drivers should never operate their vehicles while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- Be Comfortable: Being uncomfortable can be an unnecessary distraction while driving. Constant vibration can result in spinal injuries and discomfort. Installing proper shock absorbers can reduce these effects. Comfortable clothes can likewise reduce unwarranted stress while driving and keep the mind focused on the road.
- Maintain Safe Speeds and Distancing: Given the large size of semi-trucks, drivers need to be aware of their vehicles’ limitations. Avoiding excessive speeds and maintaining proper distancing can help the vehicle stop on time.
- Park Safely: It’s never appropriate for large trucks to park on the shoulder of a road or highway, because other drivers may mistake the vehicle for being in a lane and slam into the back of the stopped vehicle. Drivers should use their best judgement and prioritize safety in an emergency situation.
- Brake Only When Necessary: Unnecessary braking can lead to losing control of the vehicle in poor weather or while taking a turn.
- Load Cargo Carefully: Unstable cargo can affect a driver’s control of his or her truck and may result in an accident. Truckers must make sure all cargo is properly secured.
Truck drivers have a responsibility to prioritize safety, but unfortunately, they often do not. Whether due to negligence on the part of the truck driver or trucking company, truck accidents can cause severe and permanent injuries that cost victims hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars.
If you have ever been involved in an accident involving a big truck or 18 wheeler, contact our office today. The attorneys at Chad Jones Law, P.C. can work closely with you and bring in outside investigators as needed to build a strong claim and handle each case from start to finish.
