Weather-related traffic crashes are the leading cause of death and injury each year on our country’s roadways. This crash type is defined as an accident that occurs in adverse weather, such as rain, snow, sleet, severe crosswinds, fog, and slick pavement. According to the US Department of Transportation, on average over 5,891,000 vehicle crashes occur each year and approximately 21 percent are weather related. Above all, many of these weather related accidents occur on wet pavement and occur during rainfall.
On average, nearly 5,000 people are killed and over 418,000 people are injured each year due to weather related crashes. There may be no way to avoid an accident; however, there are steps you can prevent one from occurring.
Steps to Prevent a Weather-Related Crash
- Check the forecast
- Pre-inspect your trailer and truck
- Drive for conditions
- Pull over if your not comfortable
- Break and accelerate lightly
- Leave additional space between vehicles
Check out the graphic below for statistics on Weather-Related Traffic Crashes:
In short, no load is worth risking your life or the lives of other’s on the road. At Paper Transport, we stand behind our decision to ask our drivers to only drive when they feel comfortable. In adverse weather conditions, be cautious and take the necessary steps to prevent an accident.
Learn more about Paper Transport’s Commitment to Safety.