Avoiding Truck Accidents
June 5, 2018
If you have ever witnessed a truck accident, you know that they often cause extensive property damage and catastrophic injuries. Due to the massive size and weight of large commercial trucks, it is usually the occupants of the passenger vehicles that suffer the most severe injuries, if they are lucky enough to survive the wreck.
There are a number of safety tips that truck companies and truck drivers should follow, in order to protect their own safety, as well as the other motorists on the road.
- Raise awareness of safety issues among drivers: If truck drivers are aware of safety risks, they will be better able to avoid them. Training programs that teach the basics of the transportation process, including proper loading techniques, securing freight on the trailer, and unloading cargo, better equip them to take preventative actions. In addition, all truck drivers should be aware of the basic rules of the road and make safe, responsible choices whenever they are behind the wheel.
- Use technology to monitor driver behavior: Nearly 65 percent of fatal truck accidents occur on rural roads and poorly maintained highways. Technology can be used to monitor a driver’s behavior, and make them aware of their flaws, so that they know what areas they need to improve upon. Surveillance systems can monitor engine performance, stop times, truck performance, and whether the seat belt is being used. Data can be collected from the monitoring system and used as evidence when pursuing a legal claim.
- Avoid drowsy driving: According to research, the majority of truck accidents are caused by truck drivers who are stressed out, often due to a lack of sleep. When facing a long trip, it is recommended that drivers take frequent breaks, so that they can remain focused and alert, and less likely to become drowsy or fall asleep at the wheel. A short pit-stop to stretch, get some fresh air, or a bite to eat can help drivers feel better able to handle a long drive.
- Trucks should be inspected before each trip. Trucks should be inspected on a regular basis, to ensure that they are in good working order. A skilled mechanic should look at the brakes, lights, fluid levels, coupling, reflectors, door lock systems, vehicle alarms, and so on. This will let them make sure that the truck is safe, and that there are no CSA violations. It is also recommended that truck drivers keep an emergency kit available that includes a fire extinguisher, first aid kit, batteries, and fluid backup in case they run out.
Baltimore Truck Accident Lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton Seek Compensation for Victims of Truck Accidents
If you or someone you know has been seriously injured in a truck accident, the Baltimore truck accident lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton are on your side. We have seen first-hand the devastation that these accidents can cause, and we will work tirelessly to hold the negligent party responsible for your injuries. Our dedicated team is committed to protecting your rights and obtaining the maximum financial compensation you deserve. To set up a free, confidential consultation, call us today at 800-547-4LAW (4529) or contact us online.
Our offices are located in Baltimore, Columbia, Glen Burnie, and Towson, allowing us to represent truck accident victims in Maryland, including those in Anne Arundel County, Baltimore County, Carroll County, Harford County, Howard County, Montgomery County, Maryland’s Western Counties, Prince George’s County, Queen Anne’s County, Southern Maryland, and the Eastern Shore, as well as the communities of Catonsville, Essex, Halethorpe, Middle River, Rosedale, Gwynn Oak, Brooklandville, Dundalk, Pikesville, Nottingham, Windsor Mill, Lutherville, Timonium, Sparrows Point, Ridgewood, and Elkridge.
