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What truck drivers have to say about highway safety

On Behalf of | Jun 13, 2019 | Truck Accidents |

Truck drivers who operate vehicles in West Virginia need to make safety their top priority. Otherwise, they could lose their jobs and put other lives in jeopardy. However, drivers of passenger vehicles can take steps to help keep the roads safe as well. For instance, a survey of commercial truck drivers conducted by Teletrac Navman found that failing to signal a lane change was among the top concerns drivers had.

Among those who participated, 22% said that passenger drivers weren’t leaving enough space between their vehicles and commercial vehicles. This means that trucks didn’t always have enough room to brake or otherwise maneuver if necessary. One driver advised those operating passenger vehicles to scan the road as far as possible to anticipate changes in road or other conditions. Being aware of these changes may help all drivers adapt in a timely and safe manner.

Other common concerns involved driver fatigue and habits such as using a cellphone while operating a motor vehicle. Participants said that these issues were problems with both passenger and large truck drivers. Those who are too tired to drive are encouraged to get to a safe spot and walk around until they are sufficiently alert again. Pulling over may also be ideal in times of windy or otherwise inclement weather.

Accidents caused by tire blowouts, fatigued drivers or impaired drivers may result in multiple people experiencing a variety of injuries. Depending on the facts of the case, a truck driver, the driver’s employer and other parties may be liable for damages. These damages may include current and future medical bills, lost wages and lost future earnings. An attorney might use photos, videos or other evidence to show negligence caused a truck crash to happen.