It’s well known that a majority of truck drivers are often on the road for long hours, which can lead to exhaustion and impaired reaction times. When a tired driver is on the highways or rural roads, they put everyone everywhere at a more significant risk for accidents that can be life-threatening.
Using cell phones, adjusting navigation systems, eating, messing with the radio, or other distractions can divert a truck driver’s attention away from the road, increasing the likelihood of something going wrong. Their reaction time isn’t as sharp, and the results are vehicle pile ups or crashes that leave unsuspecting drivers injured.
Pressured by tight schedules, truck drivers sometimes speed or drive aggressively, making it difficult to control their large vehicles and putting others in danger. Speeding in a large truck or commercial vehicle is more dangerous than if you’re in a car because of the weight and capacity of the potential impact.
Trucks require regular inspections and maintenance. When companies cut corners on maintenance, it can lead to brake failures, tire blowouts, and other mechanical issues that cause accidents. Beyond driver error, a faulty truck is one of the most dangerous risks running on Colorado roadways today.
Overloaded or improperly loaded trucks are more difficult to control, especially on turns or during sudden stops. Shifting cargo can also cause trucks to tip or lose control. This means any individuals or vehicles in the aftermath will be put in danger of sustaining severe injuries or even fatalities because of bad loading practices.
Substance abuse — whether alcohol, prescription medications, or illicit drugs — impairs a driver’s ability to make sound judgments and increases the risk of accidents. Partner that with a truck driver who’s been working long hours without a break, and the consequences for pedestrians or other vehicles can be life-threatening.
We are all familiar with the weather conditions in Colorado Springs, which can change on a dime and be downright dangerous at times. Rain, snow, ice, and fog create hazardous driving conditions, and trucks require more time and distance to stop or maneuver safely when roads are slick or slippery.
