Should More Truckers Drive in Pairs to Avoid Personal Injury Accidents?

LONGVIEW and TYLER, Texas. According to the Atlantic, one of the challenges the trucking industry faces in finding new drivers is selling potential employees on the long hours away from home. The Atlantic reports that the trucking industry is facing a shortfall of drivers. Low pay and long periods of time away from home lead many to leave the industry or prevent many from going into trucking altogether. Yet, some truckers are finding ways to combat this by pairing up. More and more couples are hitting the road together. Should more truckers drive in pairs?

Driving in pairs might be safer than driving alone. Paired truck drivers can split their shifts, getting rest when they need it without having to stop. Well-rested truck drivers can be safer drivers. Research has shown that fatigued driving can be just as dangerous as drunk driving.

For couples who drive together, the work can be hard, but many find it fun. They can stop at vacation destinations and enjoy their time off together. Unlike solo truck drivers who have to drive home to enjoy vacation with family, couples who travel together can plan their routes around their days off, and can plan their days off around their routes.

Another risk truck drivers face is texting and driving or cell phone use while driving. Truck drivers who pull long shifts or who spend longer periods of time away from family may be more tempted to talk on the phone while driving. This can be potentially distracting. Couples who drive together may be less likely to text and drive or use cell phones while on the road.

Yet, truck drivers who drive in pairs need to be conscientious of the person they choose to share the load. Couples may trust one another, but when drivers pair up with strangers, they could end up choosing a person who may not be the best driver, who can put their lives, their loads, and the lives of others in danger. According to Smart Trucking, several drivers interviewed reported this happened when they found a partner. At the end of the day, Smart Trucking recommended team driving for couples or for people who really knew and trusted their partner, but warned drivers to take the time to get to know the person with whom they would be sharing a cab.

Truck driving is tough work. Many drivers work 70 hour shifts and can spend long days behind the wheel. Team driving can help with some of the loneliness, but at the end of the day, safety is everyone’s responsibility.

If you or a loved one has been hurt in a truck accident in Tyler or Longview, Texas consider speaking to the truck accident attorneys at the Cooper Law Firm. You may be entitled to receive compensation to cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering damages. Our firm fights hard for the rights of the injured. Visit us at https://www.cooper-law-firm.com/ to learn more.

Cooper Law Firm
501 N Third St,
Longview, TX 75601
Telephone: (903) 297-0037