According to recent statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, or NHTSA, the number of traffic fatalities related to medium and large trucks increased slightly between 2021 and 2022.
As reported by a trucking industry source, NHTSA determined that 5,936 people across the United States died in crashes related to trucks during 2022. This marked a 2% increase over the 5,821 deaths in 2021.
To give some context, the number of fatalities increased 17% between 2020 and 2021.
Although at a slower rate, deaths related to truck accidents have continued to increase, even though indications are that traffic fatalities overall have been decreasing since mid-2022.
As reported by the industry website Freightwaves, the NHTSA reported 160,608 injuries related to truck accidents in 2022, an increase of 3.7% over 2021. The number of injuries also increased 9% between 2020 and 2021.
While these numbers did not break down responsibility for the injuries and deaths, those interested in truck safety expressed alarm. One group pointed out that since 2009, the number of fatalities in truck accidents have increased by 75%.
This group called for additional regulations on truckers including mandatory devices that cap a truck’s speed and automatic emergency brakes.
The group also called for measures requiring new trucking companies to show that those responsible for safety know and understand federal rules and safety regulations.
Those in the Memphis area who are involved in truck wrecks have legal options
The statistics show that we have a long way to go with respect to improving truck safety on our roads.
The trucking industry and individual drivers can do their part by following both federal and Tennessee laws and regulations. Especially since they are operating such large vehicles, truck drivers have a special responsibility to operate carefully and attentively.
When a truck driver causes a serious or fatal accident because of carelessness, victims have legal options. They may be able to recover compensation for their losses both from the driver and the trucking company responsible.