No matter the job, staying safe is important for every industry. Amid the chaos of COVID-19, truckers need to take extra precautions while delivering essentials throughout the nation.
Trucker deaths continue to see a rise and are at their highest level in more than 30 years. According to data by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, nearly 900 large truck occupants died in 2018 in trucking accidents. That represents an increase of almost one percent compared to 2017. While this may not seem like a major increase, it represents a steady trend of highway safety issues with trucking.
This is the perfect opportunity for trucking companies to reassess their trucker safety protocols in order to ensure safety on the road. Here’s how companies and trucking professionals can avoid contributing to the higher number of injuries and deaths.
Comfortable Clothing
Since drivers can be on the road for days on end, making sure they ensure maximum comfort is important. This can be done by wearing loose and comfortable clothing and footwear. Lack of proper blood circulation can end up creating major discomfort over time and result in health problems if left untreated.
Trucking Interior Design
The layout of a truck’s interior design also plays a major role in trucker safety. Depending on the height and weight of the driver, the steering wheel, seat height and backrest should always be positioned to ensure maximum comfort. This will ensure that the driver’s movements are not overly restricted and their legs do not fall victim to cramps due to lack of space.
Road Vibrations
Cab seats should have anti-vibration characteristics included. Some of the natural vibration frequencies that vehicles use to operate are also those which can injure the spine over extended periods of time. Tilting the seat back slightly can reduce the amount of vibration and road shock that travels up the spine. Truck drivers should also maintain proper tire pressure and suspension systems, as well as lowering the back part of the seat so that certain parts of the body don’t support its entire weight.
Know When You’re Tired
Drivers should stay awake and be aware of their fatigue level after many hours of driving. Accidents can be best avoided by recognizing the fact that driving a commercial or personal vehicle is an ongoing endeavor. Being inattentive can end up causing wrecks, and operating a semi truck requires skill, constant surveying of the roads, and strict attention to traffic conditions.
About Provident Insurance Programs
With roots dating back to 1902, Provident Insurance Programs is a program administrator that serves paid and volunteer firefighters in addition to emergency medical responders with numerous custom-tailored insurance programs. We’ve also extended our expertise and experience to offer benefit plans and coverages to participant groups as well as Transportation Benefits. We are committed to continuing to provide superior customer service, and would be happy to speak with you to provide further information. Give us a call today at (855) 201-8880 to speak with one of our representatives.