Accidents involving large trucks (more than 10,000 pounds gross vehicle weight) are a serious safety problem on our Nation's highways. In 1979-1980 large trucks were involved in an annual average of 5.7 percent (385,000) of all police-reported accidents. Yet, they accounted for 11.8 percent (5,360) of all fatal accidents, in which 5,874 persons died. This report identifies the driver, vehicle, and the highway/environmental factors and the operational practices which contribute to the frequency and severity of accidents involving large trucks. Analyses did not reveal any single solution which, if implemented, would guarantee alteration of the truck accident problem. They did, however, indicate areas in which the greatest probability exists of reducing the number of truck accidents and their consequences.
Abstract