Learning from Dump Truck Accident Statistics

Illinois motorists may find recent statistics about dump truck accidents beneficial. Although there have been initiatives enacted by federal regulators as well as industry safety experts, the number of serious accidents involving large trucks have been on the increase.

Federal regulators have tried to minimize the number of accidents by minimizing driver fatigue. They have also taken advantage of technology that allows them to keep a closer watch on what happens to truck drivers when they are on the road.

The insurance industry has increased insurance premiums. It was thought that this would put pressure on drivers and fleet owners to improve poor driving habits that can lead to serious accidents. However, there have been no indications that this is taking place.

Proof of this was seen in 2016. According to the latest statistics available, in 2016, there were 8,206 dump truck accidents that were serious enough to require vehicles to be towed away. There was a 2.7 percent increase in the number of dump truck accidents during the same year. This brings the number to 5,483.

This same type of increase was seen in accidents involving ready-mix concrete trucks that required vehicles to be towed away. In 2016, there was a 9.6 percent increase for a total of 838. The number of these accidents that led to injuries also increased by 3.8 percent.

There was a very slight decrease in the number of larger truck accidents resulting in fatalities. In 2015, there were 369 fatalities. In 2016, there were 367 fatalities. Analysts say that distracted driving, driving while using a cell phone and driving over the speed limit, possibly to meet load incentives, are some of the culprits behind these accidents.

When a person is injured because of an accident involving a large truck, they may wish to enlist the services of a personal injury attorney. A lawyer can help their client get proper compensation for their injuries and losses.

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