According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of over-the-road truckers who have filed workers’ compensation claims has been rising over the last few years. In a study completed by the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics, researchers have concluded that the factor most contributing to the rise is the level (or lack thereof) of experience of many current drivers.
Many attribute the influx of inexperienced drivers to recent pay increases for long distance truck drivers. Industry officials say that there has long been a shortage of experienced drivers, but that improvements in the national economy have increased the demand for drivers, which has fueled an increase in the number of people getting into the business. One source said that he’s seen people trained to be school teachers give up their teaching licenses to drive a truck.
Another factor that officials cite is the increasing age of much of the workforce–the study showed that the median age for truck drivers in the United States is 47. The age of many operators, combined with increasing demands by trucking companies to increase the speed of loading and unloading a truck, has resulted in increased injury rates due to lack of attention.
Statistics show that all types of injuries sustained by truckers are on the rise, from the slips and falls that come with climbing in and out of a big rig to back and neck injuries tied to long hours behind the wheel of a truck. An official within the trucking industry called for increased diligence by trucking companies during the hiring process, noting that many trucking concerns pay little or no attention to whether the applicant can handle the physical demands of the job.
Contact the New Jersey Trucking Accident Lawyers at the Law Offices of Harold J. Gerr
At the office of Harold J. Gerr, Attorney at Law, we have fought for the rights of personal injury victims in central New Jersey for more than 40 years. We carefully choose the cases we handle, so that we can provide the highest levels of service and personal attention to each client. We are also happy to take over your case, if your first lawyer does not seem to have your best interests in mind.
To set us a free initial consultation, send us an e-mail or call our office at 732-537-8570.
