Find Out What Causes Truck Accident and How to Reduce Them!

A truck accident is an unfortunate event that occurs when a truck or other large vehicle is involved in an incident on a highway or freeway. The causes of truck accident can vary, and often involve several interrelated factors. Some of the factors that can commonly lead to truck accident include:

Poor road conditions

Poor road conditions such as potholes, bumpy or slippery roads can make trucks difficult to control. This can cause the vehicle to skid or lose control, which can lead to an accident. Poor road conditions can also cause damage to the vehicle, such as a blown tire or damaged suspension.

Driver fatigue

Truck drivers who work too long or don’t get enough rest can experience fatigue, and this can reduce the ability to concentrate and respond to situations that arise while driving. Driver fatigue can lead to blurred vision, slow movement, and poor decision-making, all of which increase the risk of accidents.

Traffic violations

Truck drivers who violate traffic laws such as breaking speed limits, not wearing seat belts, or driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs can increase the risk of truck accident. Traffic violations can also lead to accidents with other vehicles.

Lack of vehicle maintenance

Trucks that are not regularly maintained and repaired can have mechanical issues that can increase the risk of accidents. Examples are malfunctioning brakes or deflated tires. If the truck is not repaired in a timely manner, this can lead to mechanical system failures that can result in accidents.

Bad weather

Inclement weather such as heavy rain, dense fog, or snow can make roads slippery and difficult to control, especially for large vehicles such as trucks. This can increase the risk of an accident, especially if the driver is unable to respond quickly.

Lack of driver training

Truck drivers who do not have adequate training to drive large vehicles or do not have enough experience can increase the risk of accidents. Lack of training can lead to mistakes while driving or being unable to cope with dangerous situations.

Other driver negligence

Truck accident can also be caused by the negligence of other drivers, such as cars or motorcycles breaking traffic rules or not giving way to trucks. This can lead to collisions and accidents.

Solutions to Reduce Truck Accident

There are several solutions that can be implemented to reduce the number of truck accidents and improve road safety, including:

Driver Training and Certification

Providing adequate training and certification for truck drivers can improve their qualifications and ability to drive. The training and certification should include sufficient driving experience, adequate driving skills, handling stress, fatigue, and others.

Periodic Vehicle Maintenance

Regular vehicle maintenance can help extend the life of the vehicle and prevent mechanical breakdowns that could lead to accidents. Trucking companies should fix any existing mechanical problems before the vehicle is used and routinely check the condition of the vehicle at all times.

Road Safety Training

Conducting road safety training for truckers and other vehicle drivers can help raise awareness about road hazards and risks, and provide adequate skills to avoid accidents. This training should include skills such as proper braking, decision-making and safe maneuvering.

Vehicle Electronic Monitoring

The use of vehicle electronic monitoring technology can help reduce the risk of accidents by providing accurate information about vehicle conditions and driver behavior. These technologies can monitor speed, acceleration, position, and fuel usage, as well as provide information on mechanical problems and road conditions.

Driver’s Working Time Arrangement

Reasonable timing of truck driver work can help reduce driver fatigue and improve road safety. Trucking companies should observe work time limits and provide adequate rest periods to allow drivers to rest before returning to driving.

Strict Law Enforcement

Strict enforcement of traffic violations, including those committed by truckers, can help raise awareness about road hazards and risks. Strict enforcement can serve as a reminder for truckers and other vehicle drivers to obey traffic rules and reduce the risk of accidents.

Road Infrastructure Improvement

Road infrastructure improvements, such as road repairs, clear traffic signs, and good street lighting, can help improve road safety and reduce the risk of truck accidents.

Solutions from TransTRACK

TransTRACK itself has solutions in truck safety through its superior features. These security features include:

• DMS (Driver Monitoring System)

The DMS camera on the dashboard will give a warning if the driver smokes, uses a cell phone, is sleepy, does not see the road, or is not in the driver’s seat. So that the driver can focus on driving the vehicle.

• ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System)

The ADAS camera pointing at the road will alert you if there is an object in front of the vehicle, the vehicle is too close to the road shoulder, or the vehicle in front is already running.

• Foot Sensor

The Foot Sensor on the gas and brake pedals will alert when it detects that the driver’s feet are cross-legged or not in front of the gas and brake.

• Obstacle Sensor

The Obstacle Sensor at the rear of the vehicle will alert you if the sensor detects an object behind the vehicle with a predetermined radius.

• Seat Belt Sensor

The Seat Belt Sensor will alert you if it detects a driver who is not wearing a seat belt while in the vehicle cabin.

• Overspeed Sensor

Overspeed will give you a warning when the vehicle has exceeded the specified speed.

• 360 Camera

The installation of cameras at 4 points, namely the front, right side, left side, and rear, will assist the driver in displaying video in 360 degrees to see blank spot areas on the vehicle.

There are also features such as SOS button, speed limiter, speed reminder, driver identification, 2-way communication, driver fatigue monitor, remote immobilizer, dual protection, driver behavior, and other additional features.

Truck accidents are a serious problem that can result in huge loss of life and property. However, with the implementation of appropriate solutions, the number of truck accidents can be reduced and road safety can be improved. All relevant parties, including the government, trucking companies, truck drivers, and drivers of other vehicles, need to collaborate to create a safer road environment and maintain the safety of everyone using the road. Always remember to obey traffic rules, maintain a safe distance from other vehicles, and stay focused while driving to prevent unwanted accidents.

Start using TransTRACK’s  truck security solution for the safety of your trips and deliveries!