Understanding 2023's Truck Fatalities and Driver Accidents

The Mixed Signals of Road Safety: A Deep Dive into Truck Fatalities and Driver Accidents in 2023

In 2023, the world of road safety has delivered a seemingly contradictory set of statistics that merits a closer look. On one hand, truck fatalities have seen a decline, a promising sign for those concerned with highway safety. On the other hand, accidents involving truck and bus drivers among new-entrant carriers have experienced an uptick, casting a shadow over the otherwise positive news. Let’s unpack these seemingly contradictory trends and explore the underlying factors contributing to this complex scenario.

The Decline in Truck Fatalities

First, let’s celebrate the decline in truck fatalities. According to recent data, the number of fatal accidents involving large trucks decreased in 2023. According to John Gallagher of Freightwaves, large truck crash fatalities fell 11% in 2023 to 4,807 deaths, the fewest since 2018. This is a significant achievement, as truck-related fatalities have historically been a major concern. The decline can be attributed to several factors:

1. 1. Improved Safety Regulations: Enhanced federal regulations and industry standards, such as stricter emission controls and safety technology mandates, have contributed to safer truck operations.
   2. Advanced Safety Technologies: The adoption of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) in trucks—such as automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control—has made a tangible difference in preventing fatal crashes.
   3. Better Training and Compliance: Increased emphasis on driver training and stricter compliance with hours-of-service regulations have also played a crucial role in improving safety.
   4. Infrastructure Improvements: Ongoing investments in road infrastructure, including better signage, road repairs, and dedicated truck lanes, have contributed to safer driving conditions for all road users.

The Upsurge in Truck and Bus Driver Accidents

While the drop in truck fatalities is a positive development, the rise in accidents involving trucks and buses signals that there are still significant

challenges to address. The percentage of fatal truck and bus crashes involving new-entrant carriers climbed from 4.6% to 7.4% from 2017 to 2022 according to Gallagher, and FMCSA data taken at the end of 2023. According to Kelly Stowe, an engineer with FMCSA, “The data showed that motor carriers operating within 24 months of graduating from the new-entrant program had twice as many total crashes and nearly twice as many fatal crashes per 100 power units as established carriers.”

Along with established carriers, new-entrants may be affected by several factors:

Increased Traffic Volume: The rise in overall traffic volume, driven by economic growth and increased consumer demand, has led to more congestion and, consequently, more opportunities for accidents.

1. 1. Driver Fatigue: Despite regulations, driver fatigue remains a persistent issue. Long hours and tight schedules can lead to impaired reaction times and decision-making, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
   2. Distractions and Technology: The proliferation of in-cab technology, while beneficial in many ways, can also be a source of distraction. Drivers managing multiple systems and communication devices may be less focused on the road.
   3. Inadequate Training: Not all drivers receive the same level of training, and there are still gaps in ensuring that all drivers are adequately prepared to handle various driving conditions and emergency situations.
   4. Maintenance and Equipment Issues: Problems with vehicle maintenance and equipment can lead to mechanical failures, which contribute to accidents. Ensuring that all vehicles are in good working condition is a continuous challenge.

Navigating the Road Ahead

The mixed signals from 2023 highlight the need for a nuanced approach to improving road safety. While the decline in truck fatalities is an encouraging sign, the increase in truck and bus driver accidents serves as a reminder that there is no room for complacency. Here are some strategies to address these issues:

1. 1. Proficiency Exams: a written proficiency exam that must be passed before a motor carrier can be registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation. This was mandated by Congress in 2012 but yet to be created or enacted.
   2. Enhanced Training Programs: Investing in comprehensive training programs for truck and bus drivers can help address issues related to driver fatigue, distraction, and handling complex driving situations.
   3. Technological Advancements: Continued development and implementation of safety technologies, along with better education on their use, can further reduce accidents.
   4. Stricter Enforcement: Enforcing existing regulations and introducing new ones, especially concerning driver hours and vehicle maintenance, can help mitigate risks.
   5. Public Awareness Campaigns: Raising awareness about the importance of road safety and encouraging all road users to adopt safe driving practices can complement regulatory efforts.
   6. Infrastructure Investments: Continued investment in road infrastructure and safety improvements will benefit all drivers and contribute to a safer driving environment.

Conclusion

The data from 2023 paints a complex picture of road safety, illustrating both progress and ongoing challenges. While the decline in truck fatalities is a commendable achievement, the rise in truck and bus driver accidents underscores the need for continued vigilance and improvement, especially among new-entrants. By addressing the factors contributing to these accidents and building on the successes of current safety initiatives, we can work towards making our roads safer for everyone.

Peterson Manufacturing Company

Founded in 1945, Peterson Manufacturing Company is a world-leading innovator in the design, engineering and manufacturing of a complete line of commercial vehicle/trailer safety lighting and harness systems. With headquarters in the greater Kansas City area, Peterson is a privately held company. An ISO 9001:2015 certified company, Peterson Manufacturing is a key subsidiary of Peterson Corporation, five highly specialized companies and nearly 700 associates working in global transportation-related industries. For more information, visit PMLights.com.