OUR NASHVILLE INJURY LAWYER DISCUSSES THE POTENTIAL IMPACTS
Over the past few years, the demand for truck drivers has far surpassed its supply. Shortages of truck drivers throughout the nation could have far-reaching effects on the truck industry and may be a cause for concern for motorists sharing the road. This deficit of qualified truck drivers could even lead to an increase of serious truck accidents.
WHY ARE TRUCK DRIVERS IN SHORT SUPPLY?
A number of factors have contributed to the shortage of drivers within the trucking industry today. Although federal trucking regulations put in place a number of rules to lessen instances of severe accidents, some drivers and companies complain that limiting work hours has led to more downtime when drivers do not receive compensation. Many former drivers also left the industry to be closer to their families and to avoid being away from home for extended periods of time.
Other factors that may have contributed to the shortage include:
- Low wages compared to similar industries
- Issues with company hiring polices
IS THE TRUCK DRIVER SHORTAGE A SERIOUS PROBLEM?
Current estimates state that trucking companies are short by about 30,000 drivers. The recent growth of the energy sector has only made demand for truck drivers more intense. Projections show that the truck industry will require 330,000 more jobs by 2020.
In response to this shortage, companies are offering more benefits for drivers. Some companies try to entice potential drivers by guaranteeing that they can regularly return home for time off work. Carriers are also experimenting with changing the amount of time drivers are on the road to attract more drivers. Other companies are offering incentives to their employees, such as tuition reimbursement and safety bonuses. Many trucking companies are even reducing their hiring requirements and taking on student drivers.
HOW WILL THE TRUCK DRIVER SHORTAGE AFFECT THE ROADWAYS?
Lower hiring requirements may mean that an increased number of inexperienced drivers could begin operating commercial trucks full time. These inexperienced or underqualified truck drivers on the roadway may lead to more truck accidents occurring.
Additionally, although many trucking companies are innovating and attempting to make work schedules easier on employees, this shortage may cause some carriers to overwork the smaller number of drivers who are available. Working excessive hours can lead to driver fatigue, which is a leading cause of truck accidents.
WHAT SHOULD I DO AFTER A TRUCK ACCIDENT?
When driver error, mechanical failures or other issues cause truck wrecks to occur, Nashville injury lawyer Stanley A. Davis steps in to assist victims and their families. Attorney Davis does everything he can to put truck injury victims at ease while pursing the compensation they need to pay for medical expenses, make up for lost wages and other damages. Call our office at (615) 866-3938 to schedule a free consultation with our Nashville injury attorney today.