Here’s How Trucking Companies Can Help Reduce Traffic Accidents
Trucking companies have a responsibility to help reduce the chances of a tractor trailer being in an accident. There are several ways that any company can help minimize accidents. Here’s how.
It’s no secret that tractor trailers can be dangerous. In fact, when a tractor trailer is involved an accident, the results can be fatal. For example, in 2017, nearly 5,000 large trucks and buses were involved in fatal accidents. This makes both driving and being on the road with tractor trailers a safety concern; however, there are several things that trucking companies can do to not only ensure the safety of their drivers, but of other passengers, as well.
Follow Regulations
Trucking companies and their drivers should be following the Federal Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations. This set of guidelines helps ensure that drivers are safe while they’re on the road. Following rules may seem difficult, but the reality is that these guidelines help keep everyone safe. DOT regulations are designed to provide guidelines for how drivers should conduct themselves on duty. This helps ensure that drivers are not overworked. When a driver is overtired or drives too much, they may not be aware or alert while on the road. Proper sleep schedules and work schedules can help minimize accidents while on the road.
Review Employee History
Trucking companies should be checking to make sure their drivers don’t have a history of misconduct. Misconduct problems can range from speeding on the road, traffic accidents, or other unsafe behaviors. These should be noted and caught during background checks; however, regularly reviewing employee performance can also help catch employees who may not be safe drivers. It’s vital that each trucking company employee be willing to drive in a way that is safe and appropriate for everyone on the road. Safe driving and behavior will help reduce accidents drastically. Additionally, carefully training, vetting, and assisting employees will not only result in fewer accidents, but can help reduce the overall cost of insurance, as well
Ensure Proper Maintenance
Both trucking companies and drivers should ensure that each truck is carefully and properly maintained. This includes routine engine checks, as well as regular oil changes and tire rotations. Each driver should inspect their vehicle regularly to look for problems with the tires, for example. Proper checks are one of the best ways to catch serious problems before a driver gets on the road. Note that proper maintenance not only helps reduce accidents, but can minimize expenses for the company since fixing items quickly is less costly in the long run than larger, serious repairs due to negligence.
If you have been in an accident involving a trucking company or tractor trailer, make sure you reach out to an attorney as soon as possible. Your lawyer will review your options with you and let you know how you can move forward. In many cases, the trucking company is responsible for ensuring the safety of their vehicle when it is on the road, and the law views negligence very seriously. Call today.