Big Rigs, Big Risks: Exploring the Dangers of Commercial Trucking

The trucking business is quite essential for any country’s economy. Moving goods and commodities around the nation is a very common practice worldwide. The term “commercial trucking” describes the movement of materials or goods by huge trucks, usually for commercial use. Several businesses may own and run these trucks, or they may be a part of a bigger logistics or shipping network. Many sectors depend on commercial trucking because it enables the effective transportation of commodities over great distances. With essential highways going through the state and connecting it to other regions of the nation, Utah serves as a significant center for commercial trucking. Yet, with more traffic comes the possibility of mishaps and other unfavorable effects.

Commercial trucking, according to the Utah Department of Transportation, is a crucial industry in Utah, supporting over 100,000 employees and bringing in over $7 billion annually to the state’s economy. There are a lot of trucking businesses in Utah, ranging in size from tiny family-run operations to major national carriers. Driver tiredness, accidents, and environmental damage are some of the hazards and difficulties it presents. Commercial trucking, however, also poses considerable threats to other motorists. Commercial truck accidents can be disastrous, resulting in serious injuries, property damage, and even fatalities. It is important to hire Utah truck accident attorneys as they can help you out if you are involved in a truck accident.

Although commercial trucking creates a lot of jobs and boosts the economy, some risks must be considered to avoid unfortunate incidents. The following are a couple of factors that make commercial trucking a hazardous job;

Effect on the Environment

The effects of commercial transportation on the environment are among its most serious drawbacks. Pollutants such as carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter are produced in large quantities by trucks. This may contribute to poor air quality, which may harm both the environment and people’s health. Also, vehicles consume a lot of fuel, which increases greenhouse gas emissions and the effects of climate change. Although there have been initiatives to lessen the negative effects of commercial trucking on the environment, such as the adoption of cleaner-burning fuels and hybrid or electric trucks, these initiatives will take time to catch on and fully implement in all the states.

Roadside Deterioration

Commercial trucks are significantly heavier than passenger cars and can seriously damage the roads. This could result in higher maintenance expenditures for the government and possibly dangerous driving conditions for other motorists. Also, there can be weight restrictions that apply to commercial trucks, which might make it harder for them to cross particular bridges or highways. Commercial vehicles have the potential to seriously harm bridges and overpasses, especially if they are hauling heavy loads. This can eventually result in structural problems that might need pricey repairs or perhaps replacement. Since commercial trucks are made to transport heavy loads, they can significantly strain the road’s surface. This may result in the formation of cracks and potholes over time, which, if neglected, may hasten further deterioration. In short, commercial trucks can have a major impact on the degeneration of the roads, so related agencies must take proactive steps to lessen these consequences. This can entail placing weight restrictions on specific roadways, enforcing tire maintenance standards, and making investments in infrastructure maintenance and improvement.

Accidents

Commercial truck accidents are disastrous, resulting in serious injuries, property damage, and even fatalities. Because trucks are so much bigger and heavier than cars, accidents involving them can sometimes result in considerably severe injuries. Driver weariness and poor judgment can result from feeling pressured to fulfill deadlines and driving for extended periods without enough rest. Commercial trucking accidents can have detrimental effects on all parties involved. First and foremost, fatalities may result from accidents brought on by commercial trucking. Trucks can inflict serious injury and even death in a collision due to their size and weight. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, large truck accidents resulted in 4,119 fatalities in 2019. (NHTSA). Families and communities may be devastated by these fatalities. Serious injuries may also be the outcome of trucking accidents. From little scrapes and bruises to serious head trauma, spinal cord damage and shattered bones are all possible injuries in these situations. These injuries can have a substantial influence on the quality of life of the wounded individuals by resulting in high medical costs, missed wages, and long-term disability. Accidents can result in severe property damage in addition to physical harm. Other cars, structures, and infrastructure may sustain damage in an accident involving a commercial truck. Damaged property can be expensive to repair or replace, and in some situations, it may not be able to recoup all of these costs.

Driver Exhaustion

A key risk of operating commercial trucks is driver weariness. Drivers may feel under pressure to fulfill deadlines and may drive for extended periods without getting enough rest. Due to exhaustion, which might affect their judgment and speed of reaction, there is a higher chance of accidents. To limit the amount of time that drivers spend driving, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Agency (FMCSA) has created Hours of Service regulations. However, enforcement can be challenging, especially in large companies where failure to meet a deadline can result in the termination of job for the driver. 

Economic Expenses

Commercial transportation is costly even though it boosts the economy tremendously. For instance, collisions involving commercial trucks can cost individuals involved a lot in terms of medical bills and lost pay. The costs of air pollution and other negative effects on society and the environment must also be considered. The expense of delays is another economic risk connected to commercial trucking. Businesses may encounter supply chain interruptions that may have an impact on production and sales when vehicles are delayed due to incidents, bad weather, or other circumstances. These delays may result in lost income, decreased production, and increased expenses, all of which may hurt the economy. Also, the expense of adhering to rules and safety requirements can pose a serious financial risk to companies in the trucking sector. To make sure that their trucks and drivers adhere to regulatory regulations, businesses must make investments in technology, equipment, and training. These expenses may be high and may affect how competitively positioned enterprises are in the market. However, despite the importance of such training, many companies fail to adhere to or incorporate it as additional expenses are not feasible and will hurt profits. 

Employment

Many jobs in driving, logistics, and other related industries are supported by commercial trucking, which is a big employer. The emergence of e-commerce and the expansion of automated trucking are just two examples of the disruptions and changes that could affect the business. The nature of the work may alter as a result of these developments, and jobs may be lost.

Cargo Hijacking and Security Dangers

Finally, there is a chance of theft and cargo hijacking in commercial trucking. Cargo hijacking can happen on the road, and trucks transporting expensive cargo may become targets for robbers. With GPS monitoring devices and other security measures, trucking businesses must implement security rules to stop theft and hijacking. Commercial vehicles can also be a security risk, especially when carrying dangerous goods or other delicate items. There is a chance that the goods will be stolen or damaged, and there is also a chance that terrorist attacks or other security lapses could occur. 

Noise Pollution 

An often-overlooked danger of commercial trucking is noise pollution. The environment, as well as the health and well-being of those nearby, can be significantly impacted by the noise made by vehicles. Commercial trucks produce noise from a variety of sources, such as the engine, the tires, and the braking system. Hearing loss, disturbed sleep, and stress are just a few of the detrimental health repercussions of excessive noise pollution. Long-term exposure to loud noise can also raise the risk of developing heart disease, high blood pressure, and other health issues. Excessive noise pollution can also harm ecosystems and species, as well as the environment as a whole. Truck traffic on busy roads and highways is common in urban settings, where the noise can be particularly disruptive. In particular, in metropolitan areas, commercial trucks can contribute to noise pollution. Particularly for people who live close to busy highways or trucking routes, the sound of truck engines and braking can be upsetting and unpleasant.

Commercial trucking is a critical sector of the economy that sustains a large number of jobs. Commercial vehicles can also be a security risk, especially when carrying dangerous goods or other delicate items. However, some drawbacks must be considered, such as the influence on the environment, the wear, and tear on the roads, accidents, driver weariness and financial costs, issues with employment, security problems, and noise pollution. Even though attempts have been made to lessen these effects, more has to be done to ensure that commercial transportation can support the economy while reducing its detrimental effects on society and the environment.

Common Causes of Commercial Truck Accidents 

Here are a few reasons why truck accidents might occur;

Size and Weight 

The size and weight of commercial trucks are one of the biggest risks they pose. Commercial trucks are substantially bigger and heavier than passenger cars, weighing up to 80,000 pounds. These vehicles are more difficult to control and stop because of their sheer size and weight, which raises the possibility of accidents.

Distracted Driving

All drivers face the risk of distracted driving on the road, but commercial truck drivers are especially at risk. Truck drivers could be tempted to use their phones, eat, or do other distracting things while they are operating their vehicles. Accidents may result from this, especially when a truck driver is following too closely or changing lanes.

Speeding

Another typical risk associated with commercial trucks is speeding. Truck drivers could experience stress from having to fulfill deadlines and be inclined to drive fast to get there faster. Yet, driving too fast increases the chance of an accident, especially when a truck driver needs to stop quickly.

Ineffective Maintenance

For commercial trucks to be safe to drive on the roadways, they must be kept in good condition. To save money or meet deadlines, some transportation companies may compromise on maintenance, though. This may result in tire blowouts, brake failures, and other mechanical problems that could lead to collisions.

Driving Under Influence 

The risk of a collision involving a commercial vehicle is considerably increased when driving under the influence (DUI). Drugs and alcohol can affect a driver’s judgment and ability to make wise decisions. This may lead people to take unnecessary risks, make bad choices, and behave in a risky manner behind the wheel. In addition to impairing a driver’s coordination and motor skills, alcohol and drugs can also make it more difficult for them to operate their car and respond to potential road hazards promptly.

Road Safety Improvements

Numerous actions can be taken to increase road safety and avoid commercial trucking accidents:

Strict Rules 

Government can impose harsher rules on the trucking business, such as rest breaks that are required, time restrictions on driving, and more stringent maintenance specifications.

Better Training

To make sure that they are aware of the dangers associated with operating a commercial vehicle and how to do so safely, truck drivers should undergo better and updated training.

Technology

Technology has the potential to significantly increase road safety. For instance, collision avoidance technologies and autonomous braking systems can assist in stopping accidents brought on by driver error.

Responsibility

Trucking businesses need to take responsibility for the security of their employees and vehicles. Businesses should be held accountable for their conduct if they skimp on maintenance or force drivers to work long hours.

Public Awareness

Lastly, attempts to increase public knowledge of the risks associated with commercial shipping can convince people to drive more cautiously near trucks.

Although commercial transportation is essential to the economy, it also presents serious safety dangers on the roadways. Commercial trucking has risks related to size and weight, driver weariness, distracted driving, speeding, and poor maintenance. Stricter laws, better training, technology, accountability, and public awareness campaigns are required to increase road safety. Adhering to such precautions and safety procedures can lessen the dangers posed by commercial transportation and guarantee the security of all motorists on the road.