First, let's be upfront: Not every truck accident is the result of truck driver or truck company negligence. Some car drivers take unnecessary risks to sharing the road with semi-tractor trailers and large construction vehicles.
Second, let's also dispell the myth that truck drivers are never injured in truck accidents. The reality is that truckers frequently suffer serious injuries and fatalities when their vehicle turns over or crashes.
And third, let's clear up a common misconception: Yes, when truckers are injured because of negligence by the driver of the other vehicle, they may also be in a position to seek financial damages through workers' compensation benefits or seek additional damages in a personal injury lawsuit.
One of the greatest concerns among truck driving companies and truck delivery services is the risk and financial cost of accidents. Companies continue to find ways to not only ensure driver safety, but also lower the number of accidents per year. Many truck accidents throughout the year are linked to areas where truck drivers experience traffic congestion, such as during peak traffic times and construction areas. In an effort to reduce the risk of congestion related truck accidents, trucking companies are looking toward technology advancements to help them.
Researchers are searching for a way to utilize the data from ELDs, electronic logging devices, and the Department of Transportation's traffic, construction, and road condition information to create real time data that drivers can use to not only reduce the amount of time on the road, but also lower their risk of traffic related accidents. While real-time road information is one way to help drivers stay safe, there are many other ways to ensure that your drivers and delivery personnel stay safe when on the road.
One of the greatest concerns among truck driving companies and truck delivery services is the risk and financial cost of accidents. Companies continue to find ways to not only ensure driver safety, but also lower the number of accidents per year. Many truck accidents throughout the year are linked to areas where truck drivers experience traffic congestion, such as during peak traffic times and construction areas. In an effort to reduce the risk of congestion-related truck accidents, trucking companies are looking toward technology advancements to help them.
Researchers are finding ways to utilize the data from ELDs, electronic logging devices, and the Department of Transportation's traffic, construction, and road condition information to create real time data that drivers can use to not only reduce the amount of time on the road, but also lower their risk of traffic related accidents. While real-time road information is one way to help drivers stay safe, there are many other ways to ensure that your drivers and delivery personnel stay safe when on the road.
Be Sure Drivers Complete a Safety Awareness Program
If you are a larger company, you may have your own safety and training department to perform your safety programs. Smaller driving companies, or those without training personnel, can utilize outside services to come to your company to train your staff, or hold classes at an outside facility. These training sessions can help not only train your drivers on safe driving procedures, but can also prepare them for real life instances they may encounter and the proper way to manage those problems.
Maintain and Repair Your Trucks Promptly
Often times, truck driving accidents are the result of improper maintenance or auto part failures. Keeping a proper maintenance schedule will help keep your drivers on the road by reducing breakdowns, as well as reducing accidents that could have been preventable. It is also important to review and address any repairs that may be needed immediately. While the expense may seem high, your will pay a lot more in damages, lost wages, and insurance rates for accidents,
Create a Fleet Policy
Let your drivers know what is expected of them in terms of safety. Create a safety policy and ensure that all drivers are aware of what is included. Policies can include such things as a phone policy, accident protocols, and disciplinary action for safety violations. These policies should also include regulations for time on the road to help reduce the amount of fatigue related accidents. When drivers are aware of the policies and the consequences for breaking them, they will be less likely to do anything to violate them.
Create a Review System for Your Drivers
While your drivers probably went through extensive checks throughout their hiring process, they are also responsible for maintaining a clean driving record and other safety requirements. Create a schedule for review of your driver's records and skills, and incorporate additional and refresh training when new policies or procedures may be implemented. This will help to keep them up to date on their safe driving skills.
Every truck driver is at risk of injury due to another driver's impatience, misconduct or negligence on the road. Reduce the number of company accidents and increase driver safety by implementing the four steps above. Always remember the most important investment you can make in your company is safety.
If You Are An Injured Truck Driver...
If you are a professional trucker and have been injured in a truck crash in the Nashville area or Middle Tennessee, you have the right to talk to an attorney about pursuing full and fair compensation for your injuries.