It’s no secret: the United States relies on the trucking industry to transport our goods. Trucks are responsible for carrying over 70% of the nation’s freight by weight. A full 13.4% of all registered vehicles are commercial trucks, and there are over 11 million trucks in operation across the US on any given day. It goes without saying that the trucking industry plays a major role in our economic ecosystem. As any truck accidents lawyer will tell you: this system presents a number of risks for car drivers and other non-commercial motorists.
In recent years, car accidents involving trucks have become a common occurrence on American roads. In 2017, 4,102 people died in truck accidents: a 52% increase from 2009. This tragic trend continues today; around 500,000 truck accidents happen every year, resulting in about 4,000 traffic fatalities. That works out to almost 11 fatal truck accidents every day. The fatality rates on American roads have been on the rise, and the increased death rate from truck accidents mirror this trend.
Trucks pose danger on road
By type of vehicle, trucks are among the most dangerous on the road. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), while only 4% of all registered vehicles are big rigs, tractor trailers or some other type of heavy commercial truck, 10% of all fatal crashes involve large trucks. This disproportionate number of trucking accidents speaks to systemic issues within the industry that put other drivers at risk: poor training, underregulated working hours, and insufficient drug testing.
Even holding constant for all other factors, big rigs present big risks, especially to other motorists. Trucks weigh 20-30 times more than a typical car, which increases the force of impact — as well as the medical consequences — of a collision. About three out of every four large truck crashes (74%) involve tractor trailers, which weigh about 80,000 pounds; even a “minor” car crash involving a truck can result in major damage. Given the inherent danger of trucks and frequency of trucking accidents, insurance company premiums have spiked, totaling around $12,000 to $14,000 today. Every truck company has a responsibility to maintain their fleet to prevent maintenance issues that could lead to accidents.
Crash Location: Major Roads
Location also plays a role in the likelihood of truck accidents. One might think that truck accidents are most common on freeways or interstates; however, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, over half (52%) of all crash deaths involving large trucks occurred on “major roads” — common commute routes for other motorists. Only about one in three (33%) crash deaths involving large trucks occur on freeways and interstates. Needless to say, with many people relying on highways to safely get to work, it takes just one careless truck driver to change your life instantly.
What can be done to turn the tide on trucking accidents and motor fatalities? Drivers should take precautions by driving defensively, obeying speed limits and wearing their seat belts. Being aware of other drivers can decrease your risk when sharing the road with truck drivers. Truck companies have a responsibility to make sure their fleets are well maintained and road-ready, they must also make sure their staff is not only licensed and trained, but also regularly drug-tested, monitored, and vetted for unsafe driving behaviors off the clock.
Injured in a truck accident and have questions?
If you have been injured in a car or trucking accident, the Law Offices of Peter M. Anderson and Colorado Truck Accidents may be able to help. As a dedicated personal injury firm, Peter and his team specialize in truck accident cases. By meticulously gathering evidence to support your case, consulting with industry experts, and negotiating with your insurance company, we will give your case the respect it deserves.