Is Truck Driving Dangerous?

Truck driving carries inherent risks due to the demanding nature of the job and the challenges of operating large vehicles on busy roads. While it is a vital profession for the economy, it’s essential to discuss the specific dangers truck drivers face and the broader implications for road safety.

The Status of Trucking Driving in Indiana

Indiana ranks as the 9th most dangerous state for truck drivers, which is reflected in the number of cases we see as trucking accident attorneys. The state’s extensive network of roads, coupled with high traffic volumes and major logistics hubs, means that truck drivers are frequently navigating challenging driving conditions.

Additionally, factors such as adverse weather, poor road maintenance, and the pressures of tight delivery schedules can increase the likelihood of accidents.

Potential Risks Associated With Truck Driving

Truck driving comes with numerous risks that can lead to serious accidents and injuries. These risks stem from various factors including the size and weight of the vehicles, the long hours truck drivers spend on the road, and the conditions under which they operate. Understanding these risks is essential for both truck drivers and other road users to ensure safety.

Common Causes of Trucking Accidents

Trucking accidents are complex events that can result from various factors, each of which contributes to the overall risk profile of truck driving. These factors range from human elements such as driver behavior and decision-making to mechanical aspects and road conditions:

• Driver fatigue: Long hours on the road without adequate rest can lead to drowsiness and impaired judgment.
• Speeding: Exceeding speed limits or driving too fast for road conditions can reduce the driver’s ability to control the vehicle.
• Distracted driving: Activities such as texting, eating, or adjusting the radio can take the driver’s attention away from the road.
• Improper loading: Incorrectly loaded or unsecured cargo can shift during transit, causing the truck to become unstable.
• Mechanical failures: Lack of proper maintenance can lead to critical failures such as brake or tire issues.
• Adverse weather conditions: Rain, snow, ice, and fog can significantly impact a truck’s handling and stopping distance.
• Driver inexperience: Inadequate training or lack of experience can lead to poor decision-making and driving errors.

In recent years, there’s been a rise in the number of large trucks implicated in injury accidents, peaking at 120,200 trucks in 2022. Source: National Safety Council.

Common Types of Injuries Related to These Accidents

Common types of injuries sustained in these types of accidents include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): Severe head trauma resulting from collisions.
• Spinal cord injuries: Leading to partial or complete paralysis.
• Broken bones: Fractures caused by the impact force in collisions.
• Internal injuries: Damage to internal organs from blunt force trauma.
• Lacerations and contusions: Cuts and bruises from broken glass and debris.
• Whiplash: Neck injuries caused by sudden movements during impact.

Trucking Laws That Drivers Must Follow

To ensure safety on the roads, truck drivers must adhere to a range of federal and state laws designed to minimize risks. These laws regulate various aspects of trucking, from driver qualifications and hours of service to vehicle maintenance and cargo loading.

Federal Laws

Federal laws set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) include:

• Hours of service (HOS) regulations: Limiting the number of hours a driver can be on duty to prevent fatigue.
• Vehicle maintenance standards: Vehicle maintenance standards mandate regular checks and upkeep of various truck components such as the engine, brake system, tires, lights, steering mechanism, and cargo securing equipment to ensure they are in good, safe working condition.
• Commercial driver’s license (CDL) requirements: Ensuring drivers have the necessary qualifications and training.
• Drug and alcohol testing.

Indiana State Laws

Indiana has specific laws that complement federal regulations to enhance road safety and ensure that trucking companies and drivers operate their vehicles safely. Here are some of the key Indiana state laws that truck drivers and trucking companies must follow:

Training

The law requires trucking companies to ensure proper vetting and training of their drivers. Companies must conduct thorough background checks to verify that drivers meet all qualifications and have a clean driving record. It also ensures that drivers receive adequate training to handle the specific demands of operating large commercial vehicles safely.

Regular Inspections

Key components such as the engine, brake system, tires, lights, steering mechanism, and cargo-securing equipment must be regularly inspected to ensure they are in safe working condition. The law emphasizes the importance of maintaining these components to prevent mechanical failures that could lead to accidents. Routine maintenance and inspections are critical in identifying and addressing potential issues before they become serious hazards on the road.

Size and Weight Limits

Indiana has established specific size and weight limits for commercial vehicles to prevent road and bridge damage and ensure safety. For example, the maximum gross weight for a truck is 80,000 lbs, but there are more limits to consider according to the type of truck. Violating these limits can result in fines and increased penalties for repeat offenders.

Hours of Service

Similar to federal regulations, Indiana enforces hours of service rules to prevent driver fatigue. Drivers are limited to a maximum of 11 hours of driving time within a 14-hour period, followed by a mandatory 10-hour break.

Required Safety Equipment

Indiana law requires commercial trucks to have certain safety equipment, including service brakes, parking brakes, an emergency brake system, lights, reflectors, mirrors, windshield wipers, a horn, and load securement devices such as tie-downs and straps.

When to Contact a Lawyer in Case of a Truck Accident

If you’ve been involved in a truck accident, it’s crucial to seek legal advice promptly. Whether dealing with insurance companies, negotiating settlements, or representing you in court, an experienced truck accident attorney at Christie Farrell & Lee Bell can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

If you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to contact us.