Truck drivers are amazing people and help our community function by transporting supplies, foods, and equipment around the country. But being on the roads for an extended period can be scary if you aren't used to it. Almost 9% of traffic fatalities are caused by commercial vehicles, and 80% of that percentage are the fault of non-commercial vehicles, while 20% are caused by commercial vehicles. But, even though truck drivers aren't the main ones to blame for these fatalities, it is crucial you keep an eye out for possible casualties. By this, I mean pretend like you are driving on the road with only people that don't know how to drive. Be super cautious, no matter where you are. It might not seem like a big deal until you see the number of deaths caused by a semi-truck. In 2010 3,400 people were killed in semi-truck accidents alone. Pretty scary if you think about it. Here are the top 10 reasons for those accidents.
- Fatigue
- Debris on highways
- Hitting a stopped vehicle from behind
- Lane drifting
- Driving off the side of the road
- Weather Conditions
- Losing control on the road
- Mechanical Failure
- Shifting Cargo
- Speeding
How can I avoid these accidents?
Being a truck driver is a critical and serious job and requires the attention of your vehicle, other vehicles, and hazards on the roads. Even one second of you looking away from the road can result in a severe accident, leaving a loved one without a father, child, or mother. Your job is to know what to expect before it happens and know how to avoid any possible accidents. But we can help, keep reading to find out what you can do to prevent these tragic accidents.
Always drive with caution
Never assume that you don't have to pay attention to the roads due to empty highways or remote areas. Losing concentration might be the reason you end up in the hospital.
Get enough sleep at night
If you have a long drive ahead or plan being on the road for just a couple hours, you will need to have lots of rest before your trip. Fatigued driving is one of the most dangerous symptoms a truck driver could have before a fatal crash. Closing your eyes for even a second could lead to a collision.
Inspect your vehicle
Mechanical failure is very common and easy to come by if you forget to inspect your vehicle. Always check your truck and make sure that everything is running smoothly before you begin your next trip. If you think there is something wrong with your vehicle, have a professional look at it before you start driving on the road.
Stay the speed limit
Going over the speed limit might seem like a lot of fun for a truck driver, but it is never safe and can result in a horrible accident. Watch out for construction sites and make sure to slow down in those areas as well. Stay safe and stay in the speed limit.
Watch out for other distracted drivers
There are a lot of teenagers, and even adults that text and drive while they're on the roads. To keep yourself and others safe, watch out for these drivers and try to stay at a distance. Remember, more accidents happen at the fault of another non-commercial vehicle, so it is your job to watch for the signs of a bad driver.
Slow down during harsh weather conditions
During the rainy and snowy seasons, black ice and other dangerous road problems will occur. Make sure that you adjust your speed to the weather and know how to use your brakes at your advantage if you ever find yourself sliding or going off track.
Use signaling at your advantage
If you know you will need to get over soon, make sure to signal in advance to give other drivers a chance and opportunity to change lanes and get out of your way when needed. Nobody likes to be on the side of a semi when their lights are going off. So giving yourself extra time in advance will clear the road and provide you with plenty of space to move over.
