How a Shortage of Truck Drivers is Putting You at Risk of a Serious Accident
There is a serious shortage of qualified truck drivers in the United States, and it’s only predicted to get worse. In fact, senior vice president of American Trucking Association Bob Costello estimates that the shortage could grow to 175,000 by 2026 if things do not change. While this may initially seem like a problem for trucking companies and business who rely on the industry’s capacity to move goods from one place to another, the reality is that a truck driver shortage is putting everyone on the road at risk.
Fewer Truckers Increases the Risk of Driver Fatigue
It stands to reason that if there are fewer truckers available, there is a greater chance that truckers will be incentivized (or in some cases, pressured) to drive more often and for longer shifts – in some cases, in violation of federal regulations that limit the number of hours that a commercial driver can drive in a given period. The dangers associated with driver fatigue are well-documented, and overworked and under-rested truck drivers put everyone on the road at risk.
Fewer Truckers Can Result in Underqualified Truck Drivers
A scarcity of truck drivers can also pressure trucking companies to hire underqualified (or simply unqualified) applicants in order to ensure that they have the capacity to meet demand. Driving an 80,000 big-rig is not a simple task, which is why the federal government requires any commercial drivers who operate trucks across state lines to undergo specialized training and obtain a commercial driver’s license.
What to Do if You Are Injured in an Accident with a Commercial Truck
If you are hurt in an accident with a commercial truck, it’s important to take certain steps to protect your rights. Remember, the insurance companies that insure trucking companies are not on your side and will do everything they can to minimize or even completely deny your claim. Here are some of the things you should do after a commercial trucking accident to make sure you get the compensation to which you are entitled under Kansas law:
- Document as much information as you can about the accident, including the driver’s name and the name of the company responsible for operating the vehicle
- Seek medical attention, even if you do not think that your injuries warrant it
- Do not accept a settlement offer from the trucker, the trucking company, or an insurance company before talking to a lawyer
- Retain an experienced attorney as soon as you can
Call Us Today to Speak with a Truck Accident Attorney in Salina
If you have been hurt in an accident with a commercial truck in Kansas, there’s a good chance that you’re entitled to compensation under state law. We stand for you, at the intersection of I-135 and I-70. With over 80 years of combined experience, the lawyers of Neustrom & Associates have the skill and knowledge necessary to bring your case to the most favorable resolution possible. To schedule a consultation with a Salina accident lawyer, call our office today at 785-825-1505 or contact us online.