Large trucks are some of the most dangerous vehicles on the road. This is not to say that commercial truck drivers are more negligent than other motorists. In fact, most are subject to stricter oversight, training and licensing regulations than the typical driver. However, commercial trucks’ sheer size means that the risk of serious or catastrophic injury is much greater if a crash does occur.
For that reason, the federal government has put significant focus on reducing truck accident rates. Earlier this month, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration released the latest installment of its strategic plan to improve truck safety.
According to an agency spokesperson, the plan outlines “a vision for the future that moves toward zero commercial motor vehicle crashes, injuries and fatalities.”
The agency intends to focus on improving the culture of safety in the trucking industry, promoting a more effective use of technology and increasing efficiencies within the FMCSA. It wants to work on identifying and removing high-risk commercial carriers and instituting higher standards for drivers and trucking companies entering the commercial carrier industry.
The agency also hopes to increase its ties with state and local governments, safety advocates and industry groups. All of these stakeholders played a role in drafting the final version of the FMCSA’s strategic plan.
California Truck Accidents
Hopefully, the FMCSA’s initiatives will go a long way toward improving safety in the commercial truck industry. However, not every mistake can be prevented, and truck accidents will continue to occur.
California residents who are injured in an accident with a commercial truck driver have legal recourse to recover for their injuries. Potential recoverable damages can include medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Source: The Trucker, “FMCSA Five-Year Plan Aims for Zero Crashes,” Lyndon Finney, May 9, 2012.
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