Driving a commercial truck requires skill, experience and a high level of responsibility. Unfortunately, accidents involving commercial trucks are all too common, and inexperienced drivers can contribute to these incidents.
It is important for trucking companies and drivers to realize the impact of inexperience on commercial truck accidents and review strategies to address this problem.
Lane changing and making decisions
Commercial truck accidents can have devastating consequences due to the size and weight of these vehicles. Inexperienced drivers may lack the necessary training and knowledge to operate a commercial truck safely. One common issue is improper lane changing. Inexperienced drivers may struggle to judge the distance and speed of other vehicles on the road. This can result in dangerous maneuvers that increase the likelihood of a collision.
Another factor that contributes to commercial truck accidents involving inexperienced drivers is poor decision-making. Inexperienced drivers may not be familiar with how to handle challenging driving conditions, such as inclement weather or heavy traffic. This lack of experience can lead to risky decisions that put themselves and others at risk. For example, an inexperienced driver may not know how to properly slow down and maintain control of a commercial truck on a slippery road. This could increase the chances of a skid or jackknife situation.
Preventing accidents
To prevent accidents involving inexperienced drivers and commercial trucks, proper training and education are key. Commercial truck drivers should undergo comprehensive training programs that cover all aspects of safe driving. For example, defensive driving techniques, vehicle maintenance and emergency procedures. Inexperienced drivers should have experienced mentors provide guidance and support as they gain more on-the-road experience. Additionally, regular safety checks and maintenance of commercial trucks are necessary to prevent accidents.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration says that 5,700 large trucks became involved in deadly accidents during 2021. By focusing on safety practices, trucking companies and drivers can minimize the risk of accidents and ensure the safety of themselves and others on the road.