Taking A Closer Look At The Hidden Dangers Of Sharing Highways With Big Trucks

Posted on: 8 November 2015

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You may hop in your car every day and drive right along side a fleet of semi trucks on your way to work, barely giving any thought to the idea that these vehicles could easily wipe your own out with one wrong movement. However, as a driver, it is always wise to be alert to the dangers on the roadway, no matter what shape or form they may come in – especially when it comes to big trucks. Here are a few of the hidden dangers of sharing the roadways with these massive vehicles that you should know about.

You Cannot Count On Truck Drivers to Be Alert

Falling asleep while operating a commercial truck may be something that you would never consider a professional doing, but it does happen – and when it does, the results can be catastrophic. Sleep deprivation is common in commercial trucking, and to make matters worse, sleep apnea is also a big issue affecting as many as one out of every three drivers to some degree.

Even though there are new guidelines currently in the works to address the sleep apnea problem, these are not yet enforced, and most companies do not require this type of testing when they are hiring new drivers. Stay alert to semi drivers who seem to have slow reaction times or are having difficult staying within the lines on the roadway. Keep your distance if you suspect that a driver is not as alert as they should be to stay safe.

You Cannot Guarantee that a Truck Driver Is Sober

Drugs and alcohol are a major problem in the commercial trucking industry. In a lot of cases, drug problems stem from a truck driver trying to stay more alert, using things like amphetamines or even cocaine. A study performed in 2013 showed that more than half of the truck drivers involved in the collection of information admitted to drinking and driving. Plus, 30 percent claimed that they had used amphetamines. This is astounding to consider when you have to drive on the same roadways as these people and is well worth you staying alert to signs that a driver may be under the influence while operating. If you do spot erratic behavior, be sure to contact the local highway patrol or authorities immediately.

It is impossible avoid big trucks on a lot of highways. To keep yourself protected, make sure you stay alert to the real dangers involved. If you have been involved with a big truck in an automobile accident, be sure to talk to a personal injury attorney like Randall A. Wolff & Associates, Ltd for advice.