Truck driving is one of the most dangerous occupations in the nation. The Bureau of Labor Statistics announced that out of the 5,190 work injuries in the United States, 786 of those injured were truck drivers. Since 2001, the fatality rate has drastically increased by 17.5 percent. There has been a 47 percent increase in fatalities since 2009.
The Cause of Truck Accidents
Most commercial truckers spend most of their time on the road, while transporting heavy cargo. Researchers have placed truck driving as one of the top 10 most dangerous jobs in the United States, with a fatality rate of 24.7 per 100,000 drivers.
One of the major factors that contributes to truck accidents is the dangers of the trucking industry. The increase in demand is motivating employers to make larger profit margins. To do so, employers are pushing drivers to driver longer hours. The trucking industry has modified at least half a dozen important regulations that help keep workers safe. This include working hours, resting periods, size and weight limits, and safety standards. One of the major concerns is that drivers are fatigued while driving on the road—since many drive more than 80 hours a week. Tired drivers are prone to make mistakes as they attempt to fulfill the industry’s demands.
Employers cut corners to maximize profits, even if it jeopardizes driver’s safety on the road. Employers encourage drivers to ignore safety regulations at their own risks. Researchers discovered that over 3,000 trucks were removed from the road because they had poorly-maintained brake systems. Employers have the responsibility to implement safety regulations to prevent truck accidents from occurring. If employers fail to train and require drivers to keep their trucks repaired, they can be held liable for their negligence.
If you have been involved in a truck accident, our Louisiana truck accidents attorneys are here to help. We have helped hundreds of clients recover the compensation they deserve to secure their future. Contact us today at (225) 209-9943 for a free case review!