Trucking is a critical component of the Georgia economy, transporting goods throughout the Peach State and the country. However, recent trends toward heavier trucks have led to concerns about motorist safety on roads and highways. The increase in truck size and weight has led to a rise in catastrophic accidents, causing injuries and fatalities.
Deceleration
Heavier trucks require more time and distance to stop. A fully loaded truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, which puts a tremendous strain on its brakes.
The increased weight also means that it takes longer for the truck to come to a complete stop, particularly in emergencies. This puts other vehicles on the road at risk of being involved in rear-end collisions and pile-ups.
Difficult to maneuver
The larger truck size makes these vehicles more challenging to turn and navigate through tight spaces. Trucks may drift into other lanes or run off the road, potentially causing catastrophic motor vehicle accidents.
Bigger collisions
Heavier trucks can cause significant damage in the event of an accident. Due to their size and weight, a collision with a heavy truck can be much more severe than a lighter vehicle.
Tire blowouts and mechanical failure
The additional weight puts more stress on the tires, increasing the likelihood of a blowout or other failure that can cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle. Furthermore, mechanical systems such as the hitch can fail.
Wear and tear on infrastructure
Besides accidents that involve the trucks in question, heavier vehicles can contribute to catastrophic accidents other vehicles end up having. There is a genuine concern that heavier trucks can put more strain on bridges and overpasses, which may not be designed to handle the weight of these vehicles.
Staying safe on Georgia roads
The increase in the weight of trucks on highways has led to concerns about safety. As authorities and industry professionals continue to explore the impact of heavier trucks on Georgia roads, it is crucial to consider the safety risks involved and to take steps to mitigate these risks to ensure the safety of all drivers and passengers on the road.