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Truckers nationwide are discussing ways to cut down on the number of truck accidents and keep the roads safer for everyone. An August symposium, put on by Travelers & Northland Insurance, along with Virginia Tech Transportation Institute, addressed four top concerns in the trucking industry:
- Driver Wellness – Sleep apnea in particular is a growing concern for truck drivers. This often-overlooked illness leads to fatigued drivers who may be unaware that their constant exhaustion is putting them in danger of causing a serious Maryland truck accident.
- Distracted Driving – A growing cause for all drivers is the number of readily available driving distractions, from cell phones, to GPS, to numerous other electronic gadgets. Truck drivers who spend hours at a time behind the wheel may be tempted to allow themselves a momentary distraction, but even two seconds of inattention can lead to a serious accident.
- Hours of Service Regulations – Recent changes to federal limits on how long a truck driver can work without a break are intended to help cut down on the number of drowsy truck drivers on the road, especially when those workers already struggle with irregular hours and erratic sleep schedules.
- Safety Technology – Trucks can now be equipped with onboard safety mechanisms that sense a potential collision in the truck’s path and may even be able to help the driver brake to avoid a truck accident in Maryland and elsewhere.
While there is hope for safer roads in the future, symposiums can only go so far in getting the discussion started. It’s up to truckers to take that information and put it to good use. If you or someone you love has already been the victim of a Maryland truck crash, you should talk to an experienced Southern Maryland accident attorney who can help you recoup damages for your injuries. To set up a free consultation, call Nickelsporn and Lundin at 800-875-9700 today.