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Younger truckers raise the chances of trucking accidents

On Behalf of | May 31, 2022 | Truck Accidents

Ever since the shortage of truckers has increased, the nation has considered alternate means of raising the number of truckers on the road again. One notable way the nation has considered increasing the number of truckers is by reducing the legal age to drive a truck. Young adults between 18 to 21 years of age have been given the privilege to drive trucks within state lines. 

It may be a smart move to lower the legal truck driving age to increase the demand for goods and services, but the result comes with many dangers. Younger truckers are often young adults who haven’t had their licenses for more than a couple of years. The lack of experience these truckers have on the road can increase the risk of crashes on the highway. 

Here’s what you should know:

Younger truckers may not realize how powerful their trucks can be

Trucks aren’t like the average car. These heavy machines could turn the cars around them into scrap metal if not handled the right way. That’s why it takes a lot of training before someone is ready to drive them long distances on open roads. 

Trucking is a stressful job that younger drivers may not be ready to handle 

Trucking is a big job that many don’t realize the risks involved. Truckers can be on the road for 24 to 48 hours before they have a chance to stop for a break. There are very few times truckers get to stop to eat, sleep and maintain their health. 

The physical stress of trucking only hurts the mental stress more. Truckers don’t get to see their families as often as they wish and the isolation and sleep deprivation can push a person’s mind to its limits. Young adults may not understand the stress of trucking, leading them into situations they’re unprepared to handle and hurting themselves and the drivers around them. 

Younger drivers may not understand the mental and physical risks of trucking, and as a result, have caused you serious injuries in a crash. You may need to seek legal help to recover your losses.

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