Truck Accidents Decline Among Loggers

Copyright (c) 2008 Katie Kelley

A recent study conducted by the state of Washington found that the number of truck accidents involving log trucks has declined by 11 percent even as the number of accidents involving all commercial trucks increased by 15 percent over a two-year period.

The most deadly and costly vehicular accidents involve commercial truck accidents. When a truck accident occurs it can devastate more than just the individuals involved, but can often affect family and friends as well.

What are Commercial Trucks, Log Trucks?

In the United States, commercial trucks, also commonly referred to as heavy trucks, are those vehicles used to transport cargo and weighing more than 26,001 pounds in which case a commercial truck driver's license is also needed.

There are an array of types of commercial trucks that carry a variety of goods from logs and food to military vehicles to commercial trucks that are specifically designed to mix and transport concrete.

Researchers have reported that while the construction of commercial trucks continues to improve, the level of quality still remains well below the quality level of automobiles and it has been said that commercial trucks remain well below automobiles in quality due mainly to the fact that nearly 3/4 of all commercial trucks are custom built, causing inefficiencies in steamlining a commercial truck assembly line. However, a lengthy list of popular commercial truck manufacturers remains both worldwide and in America. Top truck manufacturers are as follows:

* American LaFrance

* Autocar Company USA

* Crane Carrier Corporation

* Chevrolet

* Colet

* Dodge

* E-One

* Freightliner

* Ford

* GMC

* Hino

* Isuzu

* Kenworth

* Mack Trucks

* International

* Nissan

* Oshkosh

* Ottawa Truck

* Peterbilt

* Pierce

* Sterling Trucks

* UD Nissan Diesel

* Volvo Trucks

* Western Star

Logging trucks and log truck drivers are no different from commercial trucks or commercial truck drivers, however, the Washington study conducted by the Washington State University found that a small group of log truck drivers are often considered seasoned and experienced drivers of the dangerous profession, which may be attributing to the total decrease of log truck accidents. However, the study also noted that as these individuals begin to retire, not only will the logging industry suffer, but accidents may begin to increase instead of decrease.

The study noted that, "rising costs, aging drivers and long hours of service" as well as "other factors that could affect safety and economic viability include the ongoing effects of deregulation, poor driver recruitment" could all become factors responsible for a potential increase of log truck accidents.

Protecting Yourself from a Truck Accident

Individuals who have been involved in a commercial truck accident are advised to seek medical assistance even if no signs or symptoms of an injury are present. Often, injuries sustained in a vehicular or commercial truck accident can remain unseen and may include internal bleeding or bruising, which could have fatal consequences on a victim if injuries are not immediately assessed and treated. It is not only important to locate a physician, but is also important to contact a commercial truck wreck attorney.

Receiving a free legal consultation on injuries derived from a truck accident can provide relief from stress or worry over medical bills or automotive debts associated with a commercial truck collision or a log truck wreck.