Regulators cite mixed bag of results re large-truck accidents, safety
Regulators cite mixed bag of results re large-truck accidents, safety
How might readers best assess the following accident data concerning America’s large and diverse commercial trucking fleet?
On the one hand, deaths nationally linked to roadway crashes involving one or more commercial trucks did not increase last year from fatalities that occurred during 2018.
On the other hand, though, neither did they wane.
In fact, the relevant numbers for the two years are nearly identical. A reported 5,006 people across the country died in large truck crashes in 2018. The number of fatalities last year was 5,005.
So, no startling and notably adverse trend, but no discernible improvement, either.
And there’s this, which fatality statistics underscore in a way that can’t be disguised or minimized: On average, nearly 14 people died in accidents featuring commercial trucks — tractor trailers, 18-wheel semis and other assorted outsized rigs – every single day during 2019.
The above numbers are supplied courtesy of a report issued recently by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. In addition to the NHTSA’s findings concerning large truck-linked fatalities, study numbers also highlighted this alarming point relevant to roadway crashes last year: During last year, more than 36,000 people died in motor vehicle crashes of all types. Extrapolated, that equates to nearly 100 fatalities a day.
One especially notable point emerging from the NHTSA study spotlights truck drivers’ troublesome behind-the-wheel behavior that has increased during the current health pandemic. Diminished roadway traffic overall in recent months has apparently emboldened some truckers, leading to aggressive and dangerous behaviors. Reportedly, an increasing number of drivers “are speeding, failing to wear seat belts, and driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.”
Such conduct has obvious implications for road safety. Individuals with questions or concerns regarding a motor vehicle accident and resulting injuries can reach out for candid guidance and proven representation to a proven personal injury legal team.
