The Aging Truck Driver Population
Did you know that according to the American Trucking Association,1 nearly 70 percent of freight transported in the United States is carried by trucks, semi-trucks, and 18-wheelers. However, the trucking industry is facing a serious shortage in truck drivers due, in part, to the fact that truck drivers face long periods away from home. It is estimated that an additional 25,000 truck drivers are needed in order to stabilize employment in the trucking industry. With this in mind, the industry is increasingly turning to drivers over the age of 65.
Dangers Associated with Older Truck Drivers
As drivers age, common changes in vision, hearing, reaction time, and overall health can affect road safety. The most common driving mistakes made by older drivers2 include the following:
- Failure to yield the right of way;
- Failure to stay in lane;
- Driving too slowly;
- Difficulty perceiving depth when making turns, and
- Difficulty driving during nighttime hours.
Truck Accidents and Older Drivers
As truck drivers often work long hours, including during the nighttime, utilizing older truck drivers can be dangerous, as they may be unable to perceive vehicles in their blind spots when changing lanes. Certain 18-wheelers, large trucks, and semi-trucks have large rear, right, and left blind spots, which makes lane changing difficult. If a truck driver is fatigued, inattentive, or simply has difficulty seeing, your car might find itself unexpectedly sideswiped by a truck that is unaware of your location. This may push your vehicle into oncoming traffic, causing serious, if not fatal, injuries.
For Questions About Your Truck Accident, Contact an Experienced National Truck Accident Lawyer Today
If you have been involved in a trucking accident and you believe the truck driver’s age or health may have contributed to the cause, it is important to contact attorneys who understand the complex federal health and safety regulations imposed upon older truck drivers. The attorneys at McEwen & Kestner are the nation’s leading truck injury lawyers, with a reputation for success representing clients injured in trucking accidents. For questions about your truck accident, contact their Pennsylvania office today for a FREE, no-risk consultation at (800) 732-3070.
1http://www.trucking.org/News_and_Information_Reports.aspx
2https://nihseniorhealth.gov/olderdrivers/howagingaffectsdriving/01.html