The trucking industry has evolved into one of the largest and most profitable segments of cargo transportation, which is a positive development in many ways. It supports jobs, moves essential goods, and keeps the economy running. However, on the other hand, many companies in the industry prioritize cost-cutting and profit maximization over ensuring road safety.
Large trucks carry heavy loads and travel long distances, often at high speeds. Because of their size and weight, they can cause serious damage in a crash. For towns like Santa Rosa, a lovely city in California, known for its wineries, friendly neighbourhoods, as well as its busy traffic, accidents still occur, particularly when both locals and trucks share the same roads.
If you have been involved in a collision here and are living in this area, reach out to a truck accident law firm located in Santa Rosa. They understand the area well and will guide you through the aftermath.
What causes truck accidents primarily
In 2023, around 5000 people lost their lives in large commercial truck crashes. Despite significant improvements in vehicle design and road regulations, these trucking companies often overlook the importance of regular inspections and neglect the need for experienced drivers to handle the trucks.
Yes, they claim to have installed modern technology in the vehicles, but it is still not enough, and that’s because:
Not all the trucks are inspected properly.
Rules and regulations are in place, but many trucks are not checked as frequently as they should be. And that is solely because some companies cut corners to save time or money, letting vehicles with worn-out brakes, bad tires, or other issues stay on the road. The majority of these trucking industries share a common trait: they prioritize profit over road safety.
Drivers are under pressure
There is no proper work shift allocated for these people. Many truck drivers work long hours with little or no rest, and the tragic part is that they’re often paid by the mile, which can push them to drive longer and faster than is safe. Because of all these pressure drivers, drivers work long hours straight, sacrificing their sleep and daily food, which leads to fatigue, and this plays a major role in accidents.
How the Trucking Industry Can Prevent Crashes
We all share the road. Most truck drivers are doing their best, but the system around them needs to function more effectively.
A better oversight of the trucking industry means:
- Fewer deadly crashes
- Safer roads for everyone
- Peace of mind when you’re behind the wheel
Only stronger and stricter rules can make a bigger difference, and that helps us all.
Additional safety inspections for trucks
If trucks were checked more frequently, many problems, such as faulty brakes or unsafe loads, could be addressed before they cause an accident.
Better training for drivers
Driving a large commercial truck is a skilled, demanding, and challenging job. With additional training, drivers would be better prepared to handle difficult situations, such as sharp turns, adverse weather conditions, or sudden stops.
Improved Safety Technologies
All trucking companies must invest in and mandate the use of advanced safety features in trucks, such as “smart” or electric semi-trucks, which can provide assistance to drivers, preventing accidents and improving overall road safety.
Making companies follow safety rules
As mentioned earlier, some trucking companies pressure drivers to work excessively or skip routine truck maintenance to save money. There needs to be stricter rules and penalties in place if companies fail to follow them.