The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on our economy and the way we shop. While fewer people are going out and visiting shopping malls, online retail sales have sharply increased over the last few months. This has led to an increase in small trucks, box trucks and vans that are often used by online retailers, such as Amazon.
This increased demand could result in an uptick in truck crashes across Ohio. Here's why.
Trucking companies may hire too fast
Retail goods and essential items are being moved at a rate like we've never seen. In June of this year, trucking companies hired about 8,000 new drivers to keep up with the demand. This may be good for the trucking industry. Some companies may hire too quickly, however, without properly screening drivers and ensuring that they are adequately trained and licensed.
It takes a great deal of skill and good judgment to operate a large commercial truck, especially when sharing the road with smaller cars, navigating wide turns and responding to hazardous road conditions. In addition, drivers who are not properly screened could have a history of reckless driving, distracted driving or driving while under the influence.
Extra pressure on truck drivers may lead to speeding and aggressive driving
Truck drivers and retail delivery drivers are busier than ever. Many of them have to make hundreds of stops each day within a limited amount of time. This can lead to drivers exceeding the posted speed limit or driving aggressively.
This can be especially dangerous when retail delivery drivers make stops in residential areas. That's where they are more likely to encounter pedestrians and bicyclists.
Not all trucks and delivery vehicles may be in safe condition
Some trucking companies or online retail providers may ignore vehicle maintenance and proper inspection. This could lead to an increase in unsafe trucks and delivery vans on our roads.
Many truck crashes that are linked to mechanical failures are caused by brake failure, loose wheels, tire blowouts and steering issues.
Hire an experienced truck accident attorney if you were injured in a crash
If you or a loved one was injured in a truck crash, you have the right to pursue damages from the trucking company and its insurers. Truck accident claims are highly complex and often involve multiple insurance companies. The cab, trailer and cargo on semi-trucks are usually insured separately, for example.
It's never a good idea to deal with insurance companies and trucking companies without the help of an experienced Ohio attorney at Smith Law Office. We know how trucking companies and insurance companies operate. We know the tricks they use to avoid paying damages to crash victims. We'll work tirelessly to advocate for you so you don't have to pay for your recovery out of pocket.
To schedule your free case evaluation, contact our Columbus law office online and we'll get back to you shortly.
