Many semi-trucks pass through Kentucky every day. With major freeways crisscrossing the state and a location close to industrial operations, like the Toyota plant, semi-trucks are a major presence on our roads. Most of the time these trucks can safely share the road with other drivers, but occasionally a serious accident occurs. Many times, accidents involving trucks cause serious injuries or even death. A new report released has indicated that the trucking industry is experiencing a shortage of drivers which may impact truck safety.
The trucking industry is facing a shortage of drivers. Despite increasing wages, the shortage is expected to grow to nearly 174,000 by 2026. There are many reasons for the driver shortage. One is that the median age for current drivers is 49, and many will be retiring soon. The lifestyle can also be hard on people. The food is not very healthy, and many drivers develop sleep apnea.
The impact of a driver shortage could affect other drivers on the road. With fewer drivers, trucking companies may put pressure on drivers to get their loads to their destination quicker. This can result in drivers being exhausted or speeding, both of which are known to cause serious accidents. There is also concern about the trucks that are on the road and their maintenance. If there aren’t enough drivers, trucking companies may be tempted to forgo new brakes or other scheduled maintenance for a while.
The news that there is a shortage of truck drivers across the United States brings worry about everyone’s safety on the road. If a person is hurt in a truck accident, they may want to determine if they can pursue compensation for the damages they suffered. A successful personal injury lawsuit could help injured truck accident victims obtain the financial resources they need to recover from the incident, as well as hold negligent trucking companies and truck drivers accountable for their actions.