It is noted that nearly 4,500 people die every year from injuries in crashes involving big trucks, and one of every 3 tractor-trailers can be expected to crash in a year. The widespread truck safety problems stem from poor equipment that is poorly maintained (especially brakes) and operated by not-necessarily-qualified drivers who have been at the wheel for too many hours. Hazardous cargo is being transported under less-than-safe conditions, and roadways are not always capable of handling the biggest rigs. Also, some trucks may be too big and too heavy to be operated safely on any road. This article discusses these issues as well as driver qualifications and licensing, and other driver issues such as fatigue, alcohol, and drugs. The 55 mph speed limit is discussed, and some solutions to the truck safety problem are noted. (Author/publisher)
Abstract