Driver fatigue and distracted driving are two of the biggest issues that can lead to motor vehicle accidents on the nation’s highways. Truck drivers are not the only drivers who may be hit with fatigue and distraction problems, however. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported that approximately 100,000 accidents comprised of all types of vehicles occur each year in this country because of fatigue or distracted driving.
Fleet Owner is a website dedicated to the trucking industry. The site recently reported that a safety and risk management company, Dupré Logistics, started focusing on truck driver fatigue in 2001. They assessed driver logbooks and schedules in an effort to learn how to manage the problem. According to the National Safety Council, driver fatigue is responsible for 13 percent of fatal multi-vehicle and big rig accidents, and a full 28 percent of single truck crashes involve fatigue.
Distracted driving is another huge issue for trucking companies. According to the National Center for Statistics and Analysis, over 10 percent of fatal truck wrecks and 15 percent of all trucking injury accidents can be blamed on distracted drivers.
While driver training about fatigue and distraction is ongoing, there are several types of advanced technological devices currently being developed that could also help drivers and commercial fleet owners alike. While some of these products are still in the testing stages, there are already some safety devices available.
Trucking accidents can often be devastating because of the size of big rigs. Anyone who has been involved in or lost someone in a trucking accident may want to seek the advice of an attorney who understands the laws surrounding personal injury. Even if insurance companies are ready to settle a case quickly, an attorney might be able to help victims assess their options for compensation.
