Why heavy trucks increase the risk and likelihood of death

The weight and speed a heavy truck can reach can be lethal to the driver when they don't have full control of the vehicle or a malfunction occurs, however these types of vehicles can also be the safest.

Full size and heavy trucks such as the Ford F-250, Ram 2500 and Chevy Silverado 2500HD can create increasingly hazardous conditions. As more people buy heavy vehicles and SUVs, more pedestrians, cyclists and drivers of small vehicles are at risk.

Heavy vehicles continue to grow

According to Bloomberg, since 1990, the weight of American pickups has increased by 1.300 pounds. Some of the largest cars weigh up to 7.000 pounds, three times the weight of a Honda Civic. Small vehicles don't stand a chance against these huge trucks.

Jalopnik shared that these trucks are built to be massive and intimidating as they take over cities and parking lots, and drivers love it. During the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, people have bought more trucks than cars. for the first time

This increase in heavy vehicles correlates with an increase in deaths among pedestrians and cyclists. Both the Insurance Institute got Highway Safety and the Detroit Free Press created an increased demand for SUVs and large trucks as the main reason for the increase in pedestrian deaths.

Why are heavy trucks so dangerous?

There are several different ways that heavy trucks and SUVs contribute to accidents. According to the alarm values, the danger of high loads can lead to accidents. If the truck is overloaded, it can be longer, wider and heavier than usual, making it difficult to drive.

Too much weight can shift the truck's center of gravity, which can cause it to tip over. Connecting a truck with a detached trailer can also tip the balance. Also, when the vehicle is heavier, a longer stopping distance is required, combined with the fact that if the load is not secured, it can fly away at highway speed.

Heavy vehicles are more difficult to drive, making them more dangerous in bad weather. Slippery roads and poor visibility can cause a large truck or SUV to come to a sudden stop or swerve, resulting in a disaster.

Heavy trucks have significant blind spots at the front or rear, making them difficult to operate in crowded areas. Some trucks are equipped with 360-degree cameras and parking sensors to alert drivers, but others leave them in the dark.

О 87% of fatal crashes and injuries are caused by driver error. The driver may fall asleep, drift out of their lane, be distracted from driving, disobey speed limits and traffic rules, be unfamiliar with driving a larger vehicle, drive while intoxicated, etc.

But the vans keep the passengers safe

Heavy trucks and SUVs have a history of development from military to civilian use, like Jeeps or Hummers. They are huge, bulletproof and made of steel.

Sometimes, some vans have a body-on-frame design in which passenger compartments are added to the frame and can better protect drivers and passengers.. The one-piece design consists of a single piece that folds more easily.

This may attract more buyers to trucks and SUVs, even if they don't need them to perform truck functions. Being able to haul massive loads is great, but in cities where heavy trucks are the most popular means of transport, people want their own truck to feel secure.

Driving safely can be the key to protecting those around you. Make sure your load is secure and the trailer is secure. Give yourself more room to stop and slow down.

You should also be aware of your blind spots and avoid driving if there is something distracting you. Put down your phone or snack, avoid sudden movements and overcorrection of your car. Also, do not drive when you are tired or under the influence of alcohol.

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