According to the American Truck Association, a truck driver shortage of 78,800 drivers was present in 2022. If this trajectory is not corrected, the shortage may rise to 160,000 by 2028. Truck driver shortage puts more pressure on other drivers and can contribute to truck accidents.
If you were injured in a truck accident, Caruso Law Offices can investigate the case to determine all the factors that contributed to it and pursue compensation to make things right for you.
Why Is There a Truck Driver Shortage?
Many factors contribute to the current truck driver shortage. For years, this industry has suffered a shortage, and trucking companies find it challenging to maintain an adequate workforce. Some of the leading causes of the shortage include:
- Challenging job role – Truck driving is one of the hardest jobs to work. Truck drivers must drive for long hours straight. They may suffer various health issues due to the sedentary nature of the work, such as obesity, muscle atrophy, and diabetes. Long hours away from their families can also lead to relationship issues.
- An aging workforce – The average age of truckers is 55. Many decide to retire or leave these jobs in search of others due to the physical and mental demands of the job.
- Increased demand – The pandemic contributed to an explosion of e-commerce, which has not subsided in the years since. This means there is an inadequate number of drivers to complete the requested deliveries.
- High turnover rates – Trucking companies know that driving a truck all day and night is a difficult job. This is why many offer incentives to pay for trucking school or sign-on bonuses. However, these temporary incentives do not prevent people from quitting after they have earned the bonus.
How Does a Truck Driver Shortage Lead to More Truck Accidents?
At Caruso Law Offices, we keep a pulse on the trucking industry. We understand that a driver shortage can lead to more truck accidents due to:
- Fatigued driving – Drivers must work more hours to cover more ground when the work is spread among fewer drivers.
- Inexperienced drivers – Many truck drivers on the road are newer drivers who may not know how to properly handle these large, powerful vehicles.
- Distractions – Drivers working long hours may turn to distractions such as cell phones even though they are prohibited. They may also be interrupted by chatter on dispatch devices, drinking, eating, or traffic.
- Vehicle maintenance issues – Because fewer drivers are on the road than needed, trucking companies may skip routine maintenance or mandated inspections to make up time.
- Demanding trucking companies – Because trucking companies get paid by the load, they want drivers to hurry up and reach their destinations as quickly as possible. They may encourage or even require drivers to violate federal hours of service rules, prioritizing profits over safety.
Contact Caruso Law Offices If You Are Injured in a Truck Accident
If you were injured in a truck accident, you have legal options. An experienced truck accident lawyer can review them with you during your free consultation. Contact us today to schedule yours.