Opus Loc: South East Michigan

Trucks Are Getting More Dangerous And Drivers Are Falling Asleep At The Wheel. Thank Congress.

I was wondering how any long haul or former long haul trucker here feels about this article.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/congress-made-trucking-deadlier_us_56fd6f92e4b0a06d58052ee8?ir=Politics§ion=us_politics

Zophman Loc: Northwest

As a previous owner of a midsized motor carrier, I can report that most enterprises that operate large "Class 8" commercial vehicles are very concerned about safety. The Federal Government highly regulates the motor carrier industry for safety and inspects on a very regular basis. New rules enhancing safety were effective on January 1, 2013 which the Congress approved have apparently been ineffective according to the Huffington Post. (There is lots of controversy around "sleep apnea" and testing of drivers has been shelved until further scientific research can be conducted.)

The article detailed in the Huffington Post makes comparisons that are a bit misleading. Although accidents resulting in a mortality have increased so have the miles driven. for a more balanced analysis look at the last reference below (Insurance Institute). Based on the statistics it is apparent highway safety is better today than even 5 years ago.

So, what if we restrict drivers' hours to what 8 hours per 24 hour period? Think about what a 20% reduction in efficiency will do to the retail price of all goods? Can anyone name one retail product that is not delivered to the store by a truck?

And, most drivers of automobiles act very stupid around trucks. Like cutting in front of then in a lance change then slamming on the brakes. Or passing on the right side of the fog line on the entrance to a freeway. The list goes on and on.

Although I feel there is still lots of room for increasing highway safety, I also think it is not just the large commercial vehicles are the only reason for accidents involving commercial vehicles.

I think any critical thinker will seek additional information before forming an opinion. The point of the Huffington piece is very clearly a shot at the republican Congress and in a very typical manner, presents information that is not complete.


https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/regulations/hours-service/summary-hours-service-regulations

https://www.t***sportation.gov/briefing-room/new-hours-service-safety-regulations-reduce-truck-driver-fatigue-begin-today

http://www.iihs.org/iihs/topics/t/large-trucks/fatalityfacts/large-trucks

Opus Loc: South East Michigan

Thanks Zophman