Inexperienced Truck Drivers More Likely to Cause Car Accidents

The road can be a dangerous place, and as the number of vehicles increases, so does the risk of being in a car accident. These incidents happen for a variety of reasons and range from minor fender-benders to fatal collisions. However, a recent study revealed the following: a driver’s age isn’t the best indicator for whether they are more likely to cause an accident or not. Rather, it’s the driver’s level of experience. This is especially true for individuals who drive commercial trucks for a living.

Dive Deeper

The U.S. is currently experiencing a shortage of commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers. Younger drivers are being recruited to fill in these gaps, but there are concerns about these drivers’ ages and the potential for more accidents on the road.

The National Center for Surface Transportation Safety Excellence compared truck drivers’ ages and experience levels against their respective crash rates. Data was collected from more than 21,000 drivers and demonstrated that considering a truck driver’s experience is the best way to determine their likelihood of being involved in an accident. Novice truck drivers are more likely to cause motor vehicle accidents. This means there is “no safety-based reason NOT to use younger drivers when structured training, mentoring and coaching systems are in place.”

But why does this matter, and how can steps be taken to reduce car accidents?

Why It Matters

When you know how the majority of truck driver accidents occur, you’re better prepared to ensure your safety and that of your loved ones. Like any inexperienced driver, new truck drivers frequently cause accidents due to:

• Fatigue
• Speeding
• Tailgating
• Intoxication
• Distracted driving
• Disregarding road signage

So if you see a truck driver exhibiting any of the above, it’s in your best interest to steer clear.

Legal Liability

When it comes to truck accidents, legal claims are far more complicated than regular car accidents. The primary challenge in these cases is determining who is at fault — whether it’s the driver, the trucking company or both. Even the most experienced truck drivers may wind up in an accident caused by:

• Overloaded cargo
• Improperly balanced cargo
• A poorly maintained vehicle
• Unrealistic deadlines for pick-up and delivery

Regardless of these reasons, expert counsel is needed to navigate these legal claims. Everyone deserves to make it home to their family, which begins with accountability.

How Johnson & Biscone Can Help

If you or someone you know is the victim of a motor vehicle accident caused by a trucker, reach out to Johnson & Biscone today at 405-232-6490. Located in Oklahoma City, Johnson & Biscone proudly serves the entirety of Oklahoma and specializes in providing you with expert counsel for any situation.