In December 2012, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) released its analysis of 2011 traffic fatalities. While traffic fatalities fell overall, there was a 20% increase in fatalities for occupants of large trucks during 2011. According to the NHTSA, there are more questions than answers as to why there was such a significant increase in trucker deaths during 2011 (the most recent year for which we have complete data).
Could Things Turn Around? Could the Lives of More Truckers be Saved in 2013?
Without knowing the cause of the increase in truck accident fatalities, it is difficult to say whether things may turn around this year. However, a turnaround may be possible for two reasons:
- The recent information released by the NHTSA may serve as a wakeup call and encourage truckers, trucking companies, and other motorists to make safety a priority.
- New regulations will take place this July that will limit the number of hours a trucker can work in a week. The purpose of the new hours of service (HOS) rules is to decrease trucker fatigue and improve safety. Specifically, the new rules will decrease the number of weekly hours a trucker can work from 82 to 70 and encourage additional nighttime rest periods.
It Isn’t Just Truckers Affected by Virginia Truck Crashes
Other motorists are also in danger of being hurt or killed in Virginia tractor-trailer wrecks. If you have been hurt, or if you have lost a loved one in a tractor-trailer accident, the statistics don’t matter, and the plans to improve safety won’t change what has already happened.
Instead, you need to contact experienced Virginia tractor-trailer accident lawyers to find out how to protect your rights and possible recovery. For more information, please contact our Louisa truck accidents lawyers directly at 540-967-0660.
