5 Challenges Delivery Truck Drivers Face
Delivery truck drivers in Nevada face several challenges on the job that put motorists and pedestrians in danger. Maneuverability issues, adverse weather conditions, demanding schedules, driver shortages, and equipment maintenance problems increase the risk of truck accidents that cause serious injuries and fatalities.
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Traffic Accidents
Collisions involving delivery trucks and other large commercial vehicles are all too common and the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that more truckers and delivery truck drivers die on the job than people in any other vocation. In 2017 alone, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration reports there were approximately 450,000 trucking accidents reported to law enforcement. In 2018, crashes killed 840 truckers. Drivers aren’t the only ones who are hurt in these crashes, however. The significant size differential between delivery trucks and smaller vehicles means the other motorists often bear the brunt of the injuries when truck accidents happen.
Maneuvering Delivery Trucks
Maneuvering delivery trucks in pick-up and drop off zones can be difficult. Delivery drivers often must back into loading zones, navigate tight corners, and pass through areas with low overhangs. Close-quarter maneuvering leaves little room for error. These maneuverability issues raise the risk of collisions and backover accidents.
Equipment Safety
When delivery trucks are not properly maintained, it increases the risk of truck crashes. To help reduce overhead expenses, some companies relax their maintenance schedules and put off making repairs. Should a part or system fail while delivery drivers are on the road, it may cause them to lose control of their vehicles.
Adverse Weather Conditions
Driving a delivery truck in heavy rain, strong winds, or on icy roads is especially dangerous. To avoid rollover crashes, truckers must use extra care when driving without a load, navigating winding roads, or traveling on the open road where winds are stronger. When roads are wet or icy, stopping distances are significantly increased – especially if trucks are fully loaded. Blowing snow, dust storms, and heavy rains can impair a driver’s vision, making it difficult to see other motorists or obstacles in the road.
Workload Management
Many delivery drivers are overworked due to driver shortages and the high demand for delivery services. Those with regular routes often work full-time, sometimes even picking up additional hours. Delivery drivers often start early or must drive through the night, which may contribute to driver fatigue. As a result of drowsiness, delivery truck operators may experience impairments that affect their ability to safely drive their vehicles.
