How Tennessee Plans to Reduce Truck-Related Fatalities
Many states across the country are seeing huge increases in truck accidents, and Tennessee is no exception. According to the Tennessee Highway Patrol, large trucks are involved in roughly 10% of fatal crashes on the state’s roads. These accidents often occur on highways, interstates, and rural roads.
In response, the state has created what is called the Strategic Highway Safety Plan (SHSP). This plan specifically targets reducing the number of truck-related accidents, with the aim of improving road safety for all users, including those in passenger vehicles.
The plan was developed in partnership with the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) and law enforcement agencies. The plan focuses on high-risk areas that could benefit from safety improvements. The SHSP looks at ways to reduce truck-related accidents through stricter regulations for trucking companies, enhanced driver safety programs, infrastructure improvements, education and awareness, and other initiatives.
Here’s a look at the key elements of the SHSP:
- Stricter Trucking Regulations
Tennessee is tightening regulations on trucking companies and drivers by enforcing stricter hours-of-service limits and increasing penalties for safety violations. The goal is to reduce driver fatigue and ensure vehicle maintenance is up to standard. - Infrastructure Upgrades
The state plans to improve roads, signage, and traffic technology to better accommodate trucks and reduce accidents, especially in high-risk areas. - Enhanced Driver Training
New programs will focus on advanced training for truck drivers, covering safe driving, defensive techniques, and the dangers of distracted or impaired driving. - Public Awareness Efforts
Campaigns will educate all drivers on safely sharing the road with trucks, promoting caution and respectful driving behavior. - Better Data and Analysis
Tennessee will use crash data to identify problem areas and guide targeted safety measures, ensuring an evidence-based approach to reducing truck-related accidents.
What Causes Truck Accidents?
It’s also important to understand the causes of these crashes. Several factors contribute to the high incidence of truck-related accidents in Tennessee, such as the following:
- Driver fatigue. Extended hours on the road, especially overnight, can lead to fatigue, slowing reaction times and increasing the risk of accidents.
- Lack of experience or training. Inexperienced or improperly trained drivers may struggle to operate large trucks safely, especially in poor weather or on difficult terrain.
- Excessive speed and unsafe following distances are especially dangerous for trucks, which require significantly more time and distance to stop.
- Distracted driving. Activities like texting or using a phone can severely impair a truck driver’s focus, leading to preventable crashes.
- Mechanical issues. Poor truck maintenance can result in brake failures, tire blowouts, or other mechanical problems that contribute to accidents.
Contact Us Today
Truck accidents are often catastrophic and even deadly. It’s great that Tennessee wants to improve safety but is the plan enough?
A Mt. Juliet truck accident lawyer from The Law Offices of Christopher Eads, PLLC can assist you if you have been a victim of a crash. We understand the complexities involved in these crashes. Call (615) 622-6060 or fill out the online form to schedule a consultation.
Source:
lawfuel.com/tennessees-move-to-reduce-truck-related-deaths-the-strategic-highway-safety-plan-2/
