What is the most common cause of traffic collisions involving commercial vehicles?

Distracted driving is a leading cause of traffic collisions involving commercial vehicles primarily because these large vehicles require a high level of attention to operate safely. When a driver is distracted, whether by electronic devices, adjusting navigation systems, or even engaging in conversations, their reaction times are significantly slowed, and their awareness of surrounding traffic diminishes.

Commercial drivers often face the complexity of navigating through heavy traffic, managing larger blind spots, and adhering to strict regulations, all of which demand undivided focus. When distractions interfere with this focus, the risk of an accident increases dramatically. Furthermore, commercial vehicles are heavier and take longer to stop compared to passenger vehicles, making it even more critical for drivers to maintain full attention on the road to react to sudden changes or hazards.

While excessive speeding, adverse weather conditions, and poor vehicle maintenance are also valid concerns that can contribute to accidents, distracted driving stands out as a particularly pervasive issue, especially in today’s environment where the use of mobile devices is common. Therefore, recognizing the dangers of distracted driving is vital for enhancing safety on the roads.