Truck accidents are a serious concern in the trucking industry accident prevention because these vehicles are large, heavy, and travel long distances every day. When a truck loses control, even a small mistake on the road can cause a major accident affecting other people on the road.
Vancouver, Washington, is a growing city located in the Pacific Northwest of the United States. It is known for its busy highways, strong transport routes, and commercial traffic that regularly moves in and out of the region. Since trucks pass through these roads every single day, safety is a major priority here.
If you are from this region and searching for a Vancouver trucking accident attorney, you are likely already aware of how common truck accidents can be. In this article, you will get to know the major causes of truck accidents and the important measures the trucking industry can take to prevent them.
Accidents are one of the most unfortunate and unexpected events one can encounter. Truck accidents can happen due to many reasons, but in most cases, they are preventable. For that, people have to understand what could cause these accidents. That’s the first step towards prevention.
Some of the common causes include:
• Driver fatigue: Long hours on the road without proper rest make the driver tired and slow in reacting to sudden changes.
• Speeding or aggressive driving: Some drivers still rush to meet delivery deadlines, which causes mistakes on the road.
• Improper maintenance: Worn-out brakes, bad tires, or mechanical failures increase the chance of accidents.
• Overloaded trucks: Extra weight affects the balance of the vehicle and makes it harder to stop on time.
• Blind spots: Trucks have large blind spots where smaller vehicles cannot be seen.
• Distraction: Using phones, checking maps, or eating while driving reduces focus.
• Poor weather conditions: Rain, snow, or fog make driving difficult and require extra caution.
Trucking companies play a major role in keeping the roads safe. It’s on the driver and the company to take measures to prevent accidents. Some important measures a trucking company can take include:
It is an important responsibility of the company and the driver (if applicable) to check the brakes, tires, lights, and engine condition on a regular schedule. Because well-maintained trucks are safer for carrying huge loads and less likely to break down suddenly.
Drivers need proper training and this must be provided in handling large trucks, understanding blind spots, and reacting to emergency situations. Training also helps drivers learn safe driving habits, which makes them responsible drivers on the road, ensuring road safety.
Companies must monitor speeding, harsh braking, and the driving hours of every truck under their employment by using safe tracking systems. Regular monitoring helps them guide drivers to follow better habits and update training programs.
It is the responsibility of the trucking company to come up with a realistic timeline for delivery and transport. Unrealistic deadlines force drivers to rush, making them push their driving limits, whether by driving long hours without breaks or by speeding. Companies should create practical timelines that allow the driver to rest and drive safely.
It is one of the common causes of truck accidents seen globally. Improper weight distribution makes the truck overloaded, leading to the loss of needed balance and control. That is why it is very important for truck companies to monitor and provide proper weight limits to help maintain the balance of the truck. Companies must also follow federal and state loading rules.
Drivers should feel comfortable slowing down, taking rest breaks, and reporting any issues without fear of punishment. Companies must give drivers the rest they need and treat them with empathy.
The Hours of Service (HOS) rules help prevent tiredness and keep the driver alert. These rules include:
• Maximum 11 hours of driving after 10 hours of rest
• Maximum 14-hour work window in a single shift
• A 30-minute break after 8 hours of driving
• Weekly limit of 60/70 hours based on schedule
Following these rules keeps both the driver and other road users safe.
• Truck accidents can be prevented when companies and drivers follow proper safety steps.
• Regular maintenance and proper training reduce mechanical and human errors.
• Following HOS rules keeps the driver alert and reduces fatigue-based accidents.
Car repairs have a way of sneaking up when you least expect them. A sudden rattle under the hood, a…
That red cabinet in the lobby, or stairwell, most likely doesn't get much thought by property/building managers until an inspector…
When safety inspections are required for the workplace, too often does it happen that unforeseen compliance violations crop up where…
If you or a loved one has been injured in a crash caused by a distracted driver, it can feel…
In today’s unpredictable business world, the rules seem to change faster than you can blink. Technology evolves overnight, consumer habits…
Starting a business in a place like North Carolina already gives entrepreneurs a head start. With its business-friendly environment, supportive…