Trucking is an industry filled with hazards for truck drivers and those who share the roads with them. Long hours, isolation, challenging weather conditions, and many other factors make for potential perils as truckers transport freight great distances.
The risks of driving trucks are huge, and perhaps the biggest risk of all is the possibility of getting into a catastrophic accident. Trucks weigh significantly more than passenger vehicles, making excessive destruction more likely in a crash.
Dangers to Truck Drivers
Since truck drivers must work long and exhausting hours, health issues sometimes arise. The sedentary nature of the job puts truckers at greater risk of obesity, hypertension, and cardiovascular problems.
Being on the road also means it’s not easy to get a nutritious meal. Plus, with all the extended sitting, back and neck difficulties can make it harder to drive.
There are also psychological issues and stress that can affect a truck driver. They may not always think clearly, miss their family, or the isolation may simply get to them.
All of these health factors can impact the way a truck driver operates their rig. Whether intentionally or not, they can put others at extreme risk on the roads.
Dangers to Other Drivers
When a truck driver is suffering from health issues or exhaustion, they aren’t just putting themselves in danger. They’re also endangering everyone else on the road.
Unfortunately, the majority of truck accidents are due to human error. Driver drowsiness is one of the biggest factors, causing truckers to make mistakes in judgment. There is little room for error in truck driving, and miscalculating a turn or failing to notice a traffic signal can all have major consequences.
Additionally, many truck drivers try to manage their pain by taking medication. Some of them can hinder judgment while behind the wheel. Other truckers drink or take illicit drugs to pass the time, or even use their phones just like drivers in passenger cars.
Even when a trucker is well-rested and takes breaks as required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), there may be factors beyond their control that could lead to a deadly crash. Mechanical issues from lack of maintenance by the trucking company or improper loading by a third party are other reasons why driving trucks is a risky occupation.
What Happens If You Get in a Crash with a Truck?
When a truck driver’s health suffers, they can be more prone to making errors behind the wheel. This can be deadly for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists.
If you’re in an accident with a truck, you will likely sustain serious injuries that need immediate medical treatment. Once you are stabilized, you need to speak with a truck accident lawyer. You’ll need someone who has the legal expertise to gather vital evidence and hold the at-fault parties responsible, whether it is the trucker, the trucking company, or another third party.
