Large commercial trucks are an integral part of our economy. As we discussed in April, the federal hours-of-service laws were temporarily relaxed for some drivers. The increased demand for essential goods and services has increased the risk of drowsy driving, reckless driving and speeding among truck drivers.
To help prevent an upsurge of truck crashes, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) recently issued a safety tip card for truck drivers and trucking companies. The safety tips are based on errors that led to crashes that were investigated by the agency, as well as issues raised on its list of 10 “Most Wanted” safety improvements for 2019-2020.
In addition, the card cites data from the NHTSA that reports 4,951 traffic fatalities in 2018 involving large commercial trucks. This accounted for a nearly six percent increase from 2016. The card is designed to be stored in a place that can easily be viewed on a daily basis by truck drivers.
What are safety tips for truck drivers & trucking companies?
These are the safety tips on the card for truck drivers:
- Reduce distractions and abide by federal guidelines on cellphone use while driving.
- Comply with posted speed limits and drive at a speed that is safe and prudent during inclement weather conditions.
- Manage fatigue by maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly and taking frequent breaks. Avoid driving after taking prescription medication that can cause drowsiness.
- Never drive while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
- Wear a seatbelt and ensure that any passengers in a cab do the same.
The safety tips for fleet owners and trucking companies are:
- Utilize the North American Fatigue Management Program guidelines to help prevent fatigue among drivers.
- Purchase and install safety devices, such as underride guards, speed limiting technology and collision avoidance systems. Ensure that drivers are trained on how to use these technologies.
- Put policies in place to address drivers' medical fitness for duty, such as screening for sleep apnea and other medical conditions that can contribute to a crash.
Get the Indiana accident attorneys who will fight to hold negligent truck drivers and trucking companies accountable
The safety tips outlined by the NTSB should be clear enough and easy to follow. When truck drivers and trucking companies fail to do so, they endanger others on the road.
The Indiana truck accident attorneys at Boughter Sinak, LLC have dedicated themselves to holding negligent truck drivers and trucking companies accountable when their actions cause someone's injury or death.
Crashes involving large trucks can be complex and involve multiple parties and insurance companies. If you or a loved one was hurt in a truck crash, you should never try to handle it without an attorney on your side. Let our legal team investigate your crash and negotiate with insurance companies for a fair settlement.
To get started on your claim, contact us online and schedule your free case evaluation. We serve clients in Fort Wayne and South Bend.