Large semi trucks are among the most dangerous vehicles on the road. Their size, weight and frequently high speed of travel mean any motorist involved in a wreck with such a truck is at serious risk of a severe injury or death. Sadly, it’s often neglect – such as fatigue, driver inattention or improperly loaded cargo – that causes these crashes.
As one survey demonstrates, regular drivers may be at risk more often than they realize.
Troubling admissions from truck drivers
There is a Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration survey that aimed to gather wide-ranging health and safety information from truckers. In order to do this, researchers interviewed 1,670 truck drivers across 20 different states over the course of three months.
Within this report are some startling admissions. Based on the responses, the researchers estimated that:
- 34% of truck drivers – that’s more than one in three – have nodded off or fallen asleep while behind the wheel
- 7% feel drowsy or tired almost every day while driving
- Nearly one in every four truck drivers (24%) has had at least one “near miss” in the past week
- One in every eight drivers (12%) have had multiple near misses in the previous seven days
These findings paint a clear picture, and it is a discomforting one.
Accountability after a truck crash
Even a relatively minor injury suffered in a wreck can be costly. The consequences of a large truck crash that results in serious, life-changing harm are even more enormous. Current and ongoing medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, physical therapy – these are all things that should be considered.
If a truck driver, trucking company, manufacturer, freight loader or other party caused this harm, a victim can hold them responsible.
