5 Best Practices to Prevent Truck Accidents

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The freight industry has been a lifeline during these challenging times, providing millions of jobs while delivering food, medicine, and other essential goods across the country. In fact, despite a slowdown in global economic growth, the logistics sector is expected to grow at a rate of 5 percent worldwide, buoyed by increasing demand and improving infrastructure. However, having more trucks on the road also increases the risk of accidents.

Official statistics show that heavy commercial vehicles such as trucks account for more than 2 percent of motor vehicle accidents, of which 16 percent can be attributed to driver error. While this may seem somewhat minor, it is worth noting that the sheer size and weight of trucks can cause extensive property damage, severe injuries, and even fatalities in the event of an accident. And that’s not counting the financial expenses owners will incur from repairs or purchasing a replacement vehicle.

While there is no perfect way to predict when and where an accident will happen, there are steps truck owners and operators can take to minimize the risk. We've listed down some practical tips that you can follow to help you avoid accidents and drive better in the future.

1. Get plenty of rest. 

One of the most common causes of truck accidents is driver fatigue, often referred to as drowsiness. According to a Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) study, 13 percent of crashes involving trucks are attributed to the driver being fatigued. And while regulations are in place to help ensure drivers get enough rest between trips, the increasingly high demands on truck drivers still make fatigue a significant concern in the industry.

The best solution for driver fatigue is to get some rest. A full eight hours of uninterrupted sleep is recommended before starting work, especially if it involves traveling exceptionally long distances. If you begin to feel drowsy while driving, park your truck and take a quick nap. And don’t rely too heavily on coffee and other caffeinated drinks, as these have rapidly diminishing returns and will make you drowsier once the effects wear off.

Planning rest periods at safe locations is also crucial. Following truck stop dos and don’ts can help you select secure parking areas, avoid unsafe conditions, and take your breaks wisely.

2. Stay at the speed limit. 

Speeding is the second most common cause of vehicular accidents. And compared to cars, a truck barreling down the road can exert more force and damage. Therefore, it’s even more crucial for truck drivers to be mindful of their speed and the distance between other vehicles. While it is tempting to drive a little faster, whether it’s for chasing a timetable or a parking space at the truck stop, you’re also putting yourself and everyone else at risk. Also, if you’re driving beyond the speed limit, you’ll set yourself and your company back in penalties when you get caught.

Newer drivers, in particular, should familiarize themselves with common rookie driver mistakes to understand behaviors that can lead to accidents, such as speeding, tailgating, and improper lane changes.

3. Keep an eye out for blind spots. 

Trucks are approximately four times the length of an average passenger car, so it’s no surprise that they have more blind spots than other vehicles on the road. Studies have shown that around 10 percent of road accidents can be attributed to visibility restrictions. In fact, many personal injury lawyers and safety experts recommend drivers stay at least half a trailer’s length away from the truck to make sure they are always within the truck driver’s sight. As an operator, it’s also your responsibility to be more aware of your surroundings. Not all drivers may be aware of the unique blind spots a truck has, so it’s essential to maintain a safe distance and take the necessary precautions when changing lanes.

If you're having particular trouble with blind spots in your truck, you may want to consider adding some more mirrors to improve your visibility. A pair of blind spot mirrors or wide-angle mirrors mounted on either side of your cab can significantly enhance your line of sight. They're also inexpensive and easy to install, so there's really no reason not to have them in your vehicle. However, ensure that any mirror you plan to mount in your truck is DOT-approved.

4. Inspect and maintain your vehicle regularly. 

We are all familiar with the popular trope in movies and TV shows where a moving truck suddenly loses its brakes or blows its tires, resulting in a terrible accident. While these stories seem well within the realm of fiction, the risk of an accident due to faulty components is an all-too-real concern. This is why your truck must be properly checked and maintained before and after every trip.

Following a strict maintenance schedule remains the best way to prevent mechanical failure on the road. Reviewing a checklist of all key systems, such as brakes, tires, mirrors, and engine, and following tips to avoid costly truck repairs can help identify minor issues before they become major problems.

To ensure your truck stays in top shape, explore practical ways to keep a truck roadworthy, including checking filters, fluid levels, and other preventive maintenance tasks. Making these checks a habit significantly reduces the potential for accidents and saves time, money, and lives in the process.

5. Avoid distractions. 

Whether it's eating a burger, chatting on the phone, or watching TikTok videos, there is an increasing number of distractions that can make you lose focus while driving. Of course, some drivers use these distractions to stay awake, but the risks of losing awareness of their surroundings and causing damage and injury are far too great.

Try to minimize distractions while driving. As a rule of thumb, if it can be done while you’re on a break, you should do so during that time. Also, make it a habit to send and respond to calls and messages before and after you drive. And if you’re the type of person who likes to listen to music or podcasts, make a playlist beforehand, so you don’t have to fiddle with controls while handling the steering wheel.

While avoiding distractions is essential, staying alert when you’re not driving is equally important. Practicing safe habits to prevent attacks on the road helps you stay aware of your surroundings at truck stops, rest areas, and other situations, reducing your risk of confrontations.

These are just a few ways that you can protect yourself from accidents on the road. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned truck driver, prioritizing your safety through good driving practices, regular vehicle inspections, and proper maintenance is essential.