Large commercial trucks keep our goods and services moving and are essential to Alabama's economy. There are many truck drivers who act responsibly and comply with all state and federal traffic laws.
Unfortunately, not all truck drivers act responsibly. In some cases, the companies they work for act negligently or attempt to cover up wrongdoing on the part of their drivers.
Sometimes, truck drivers and the companies that employ them need a stark reminder of which regulations they must comply with and what they should do to prevent crashes. That's why the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) issued a recent truck fleet safety card to all truck drivers and fleet owners.
What does the truck fleet safety card entail?
The truck fleet safety card is based on the causes of crashes the NTSB has previously investigated, as well as the agency's “Most Wanted” safety improvements for 2019-2020. The card first points out that from 2016-2018, the United States had a nearly six percent increase in crash fatalities involving large commercial trucks. In fact, approximately 4,951 people died in crashes involving large trucks in 2018.
The card offers tips that address the following:
Human error:
- Distracted driving and federal rules regarding the use of cellphones
- Exceeding posted speed limits or failure to slow down during hazardous conditions
- Impaired driving due to alcohol consumption and the use of prescription or recreational drugs
- The use of seatbelts for drivers and passengers
Truck driver health:
- Screening for sleep apnea and employing guidelines for preventing drowsy driving
- Screening for health conditions that can potentially lead to crashes caused by medical events
- Promoting healthy diets, exercise, and frequent breaks to prevent fatigue
Crash mitigation:
- Installing underside guards on trailers to prevent underride crashes
- Investing in speed regulating technology and collision avoidance systems
- Training drivers on how to use crash mitigation technology
What are my legal options if I'm injured in a truck accident?
If a truck driver or trucking company fails to fulfill their safety obligations, they should be held accountable. That's why the Alabama truck accident attorneys at Shuttlesworth Law Firm LLC are dedicated to fighting for the rights of injured motorists and their families.
Our legal team conducts thorough investigations into:
- Human error on the part of drivers
- Trucking companies' failure to comply with state and federal regulations
- Trucking companies' negligent hiring practices
- Other factors, including destroying or altering records
We also know how to take on insurance companies and urge them to compensate crash victims to the fullest extent. To find out how we can help you, contact us online or call our Birmingham office at 866-583-1885. We offer free and confidential case evaluations.
