The shortage of truck drivers is a growing concern that has far-reaching consequences, especially when it comes to the safety of our roads and highways in Norfolk and Virginia Beach. When there are fewer truckers available to transport goods, it not only affects the efficiency of our supply chain but also increases the likelihood of truck accidents. If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck collision, you need to seek the immediate assistance of an experienced Norfolk truck accident attorney at Tavss Fletcher to protect your rights and obtain the compensation you deserve from the negligent trucker, trucking company, and other liable parties.
Reasons for Truck Driver Shortages in Norfolk
Truck driver shortages have become a complex issue influenced by various factors. Understanding these reasons is essential to comprehend how they contribute to the increased risk of truck accidents.
Aging Workforce
Many truck drivers are approaching retirement age. Unfortunately, fewer younger drivers are entering the industry to replace them.
Drug Testing
The stringent entry requirements for becoming a truck driver, including the need for a commercial driver's license (CDL), can discourage potential candidates. Some cannot pass the mandatory drug test, especially in states where marijuana is legal.
Long Hours and Time on the Road
The lifestyle of a trucker, with extended hours on the road and significant time away from home, can deter individuals from pursuing this career. Younger workers often seek jobs in other professions that offer more favorable working conditions, more time with their families and friends, and a better quality of life.
How Truck Driver Shortages Cause Truck Crashes in Norfolk
The shortage of truck drivers contributes to various factors that increase the risk of truck accidents in Norfolk and Virginia Beach. It is essential to recognize them because they could have caused or contributed to your truck collision. Common ways that trucker shortages result in truck wrecks include the following.
Negligent Hiring
Trucking companies have strict requirements to hire qualified truckers under Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations. With the high demand for truck drivers, some trucking companies may cut corners when hiring them. This can lead to hiring drivers with inadequate training or questionable driving records, increasing the likelihood they will cause a catastrophic truck accident.
Hours of Service Violations
Due to the pressure to meet delivery deadlines, some truck drivers may violate federal hours of service regulations, which limit the number of hours they can drive in a given day or week. They often work longer hours than allowed with the encouragement of the trucking company. Fatigue-related truck collisions become more common as a result.
Overloaded Trucks
When there is a shortage of drivers, companies may overload trucks to maximize the efficiency of each trip. A truck driver is likelier to lose control of overloaded trucks, especially during adverse weather conditions, and cause a wreck. In addition, cargo can fall off an overloaded truck, with a multi-vehicle collision being the result as drivers swerve to avoid the load strewn across a Virginia Beach or Norfolk road or highway.