Driving can be a fun experience but it can also be stressful, especially when driving in big cities. You have to be on constant alert for bystanders, other drivers around you, endless traffic, while navigating the Road and avoiding an accident. It can be exhausting! No one understands the stress of driving long hours like a truck Driver. The stress of navigating the road for long hours at a time can be exhausting for some truck drivers and lead to error and accidents. While icy roads and bad weather can be reasons for accidents, exhaustion is often the leading cause for driving errors.

The Most Common Causes of Truck Accidents

According to a recent study by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, 18% of driving error is caused by fatigue, while 23% involved drivers traveling too fast for conditions. Sometimes accidents happen through collisions with other drivers on the road. Other causes are a distracted driver, speeding, and drinking alcohol. Truck drivers must exercise caution when driving, especially when carrying products or merchandise. Studies have shown that there are usually four reasons for road accidents involving truck drivers: environment, vehicle issue with trucker or other driver on the road, the truck driver’s indecision on the road, and performance.

Let’s explore the issues in detail

Performance: The truck driver may have panicked, overcompensated, and made a poor decision while navigating a turn or control over the vehicle.

Decision The driver may have misjudged the speed of other vehicles, followed other vehicles too closely, or didn’t make a quick or proper decision when changing lanes or avoiding a lane.

Recognition The driver may not have been paying attention or failed to adequately assess the situation, and didn’t use the necessary caution when making decisions on the road.

Non-Performance In this situation the driver may have fallen asleep at the wheel, had a physical impairment that affected the quality of his driving, or may have had a medical condition while driving like a seizure or heart attack.

How to Avoid Accidents

Let’s face it. Driving is stressful. But even so when you’re a trucker. Never underestimate the importance of safety and practicality when heading out on the road. Every driver has to offer the road full attention and truck drivers are no exception. Make sure that you’re well prepared before head out on your drive.

Take precautions

There are ways for drivers to avoid road accidents. Sometimes it’s a matter of taking practical measures before heading out on the road.

Weather App Having a weather app to navigate the road can be helpful for truck drivers when encountering dangerous weather patterns. Being prepared for inclement weather can help avoid accidents and better navigate the road when driving long distances.

Take a break! Drivers need a break to stretch, get a cup of coffee and grab a bite to eat. Rest stops also provide a time to catch up on much-needed sleep. Take a nice break when you need it.

Pump up on gas When traveling long distances, it is best to make sure the gas tank is full. The last thing you want is to run out of gas in the middle of a road or deserted area. Prepare ahead of time and have plenty of fuel in your engine.

Check your brakes Having breaks intact is essential for a truck driver. Take a good look at your engine and make sure all parts are working efficiently. You want to have a steady drive. Not taking safety precautions could affect your drive as well as other drivers.
If you’re a truck driver, you want to avoid the stress of an accident on the road. Do what you can to stay awake and alert. Your safety is important. Seek legal advice to help you navigate your rights as a driver. Being well-prepared builds confidence. Take a coffee break when you need it and enjoy the ride.

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