4,842 heavy trucks were involved in fatal crashes in 2020, down 4% from 2019 but up 33% from 2011. The engagement rate per 100 million large-truck miles is up 18% since 2011, while it is down 5% from 2019. Big trucks are categorized as any medium or heavy truck having a gross vehicle weight rating of more than 10,000 pounds, excluding buses and motorhomes. Vehicles are covered, both commercial and noncommercial.
Huge vehicles were responsible for:
- 9% of all vehicles involved in deadly collisions
- 4% of all registered cars
- 10% of all vehicle kilometers traveled
Moreover, 107,000 heavy trucks were involved in collisions with injuries in 2020, a 10% drop from 2019. Truck participation per 100 million heavy truck miles driven has stayed constant at 35, while the number of trucks engaged in fatal crashes has climbed by 5% since 2016. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) started estimating the number of nonfatal crashes in the 2016 data year using a new Crash Report Sampling System (CRSS). Since CRSS used a different sampling strategy than earlier estimates, it cannot be directly compared to earlier data years.
Truck incidents are not new and while they may not be stopped, there are ways to avoid them. Below are some truck driver safety tips.
10 Road Safety Tips For Truck Drivers
Truck driving can be a challenging job that requires skill, focus, and attention to safety. Here are some tips for truck drivers to help ensure safe driving:
- Pre-Trip Inspection: Before starting your journey, ensure that your truck is in good condition. Conduct a pre-trip inspection, including brakes, tires, lights, and mirrors.
- Wear Your Seatbelt: Wearing your seatbelt is one of the most important safety measures you can take. Ensure that you wear it at all times while driving.
- Avoid Distracted Driving: Avoid distractions like eating, texting, or using a phone while driving. Focus on the road and remain alert at all times.
- Maintain A Safe Distance: Keep a safe distance from other vehicles on the road. In particular, keep a safe following distance from the vehicle in front of you.
- Watch Your Blind Spots: Be aware of your truck’s blind spots and adjust your mirrors accordingly. Also, be aware of other drivers’ blind spots.
- Stay Alert: Driving long distances can be tiring. Take regular breaks to stay alert and focused. If you feel drowsy, pull over and rest.
- Observe Speed Limits: Observe speed limits and adjust your speed to suit the road conditions.
- Be Cautious In Bad Weather: Adverse weather conditions can make driving difficult. Slow down and exercise caution when driving in rain, snow, or fog.
- Plan Your Route: Plan your route and be aware of potential road hazards or construction zones.
- Know Your Truck’s Limitations: Know the limitations of your truck and adjust your driving accordingly. For example, take into account your truck’s stopping distance and maneuverability.
Take Breaks And Inspect Your Vehicle
As necessary, pause and take regular breaks. Do some excellent stretching. Take a stroll around the trailer and truck. Verify your load. Check for soft tires, air leaks, and any coolant or oil dripping under the truck.
As professional truck drivers, you should keep in mind these driving safety precautions for your and other drivers’ safety while on the road.
No matter how hot your load is or what the situations are, arriving at your destination safely is preferable. There’s nothing worth putting your life in danger for, even your job as a truck driver.
