Braking problems are a major factor in semi-truck accidents. August 25-31 is Brake Safety Week. The Arthur Law Firm wants to remind Ohio families to stay cautious and focused when driving near semi-trucks, especially on major highways like I75.

The Arthur Law Firm is urging Ohio drivers to remain alert around semi-trucks and highlighting the increased risk of accidents in advance of National Brake Safety Week.

DEFIANCE, OH, UNITED STATES, August 13, 2024 /EINPresswire.com/ – Brake Safety Week urges semi-truck compliance and safer roads

It’s only August and Lucas County has reported over 260 traffic violations due to distracted drivers. With more vehicles on the road for travel and recreational activities during the summer, the risk of accidents involving semi-trucks increases. Given the relative size difference compared to tractor-trailers, this poses a significant danger to passenger vehicles.

Sobering truck accident statistics

Statistics from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and the National Highway Traffic Administration show a worrying increase in commercial vehicle crashes. From 2010 to 2021, the number of fatal crashes involving semi-trucks increased by 52%, with an 18% increase from 2020 to 2021 alone.

The number of serious injuries from these accidents increased by 62% during the same period, underscoring the severity of the problem.

Brake Safety Week

The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) has announced that this year’s Brake Safety Week will be held August 25-31. This important initiative focuses on commercial vehicle inspection and regulatory compliance. CVSA-certified inspectors perform routine inspections of commercial vehicle braking systems. Semi-trucks with brake-related violations are removed from the roads until repairs can be made.

Brake-related violations are the leading cause of commercial vehicle immobilizations. In 2023, six of the top 20 vehicle violations were brake-related, and 25.2% of all immobilization violations on the CVSA International Roadcheck were related to braking systems.

Inadequate brakes: a major problem

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, braking problems are a significant contributor to truck accidents, being cited in over 30% of cases, compared to just 5% for passenger car accidents. Many semi-trucks exceed weight limits, which further compromises their braking performance. A recent accident highlighted these concerns when the post-crash investigation revealed significant misadjustments in the truck’s brakes, severely limiting its ability to stop within a safe distance.

Thorough inspections for safety

Although federal regulations require daily safety inspections, many truck drivers are subject to time constraints imposed by their employers on their duties. Drivers under pressure are more likely to rush inspections or perform only cursory checks in order to get back on the road as quickly as possible. This prioritization of short-term profits over safety can have devastating consequences.

Safely sharing the road

An accident involving a semi-trailer truck can have devastating consequences for cars and result in significant property damage and serious injuries. Paying more attention to trucks on the road and driving sensibly can reduce risks and make the roads safer for everyone.

For further information or media inquiries, please contact Stephanie Miehls at (419) 782-9881 or [email protected].

Stephanie Miehls
Arthur Law Firm
+1 419-782-9881
[email protected]
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