As transport operators return to work after the Christmas period, leading truck insurance specialist National Transport Insurance (NTI) has released figures showing an significant increase in truck accident severity.
An analysis of NTI’s data from July to October 2011 has shown an increase of over 100% in single vehicle 'Ran off Road' and 'Rollover' incidents.
NTI CEO Tony Clark said that the figures should serve as a wake-up call for all those involved in the transport industry, especially as we begin a new year.
“NTI prides itself on working together with the transport industry to create safer roads around Australia – not just for truck drivers but for all road users.” Mr Clark said.
“NTI encourages all transport operators to continue their focus on driver management and vehicle maintenance, to ensure fatigue and other risk factors do not put the driver, or other road users, at greater risk.”
NTI’s 2011 Major Accident Investigation Report, released by the National Truck Accident Research Centre (NTARC), recently reported that fatigue and inappropriate speed were responsible for almost 50% of all serious truck accidents.
“I encourage all transport operators, from fleet managers to owner/drivers, to read a copy of the report to ensure they are aware of the latest trends and causes of serious truck accidents,” Mr Clark said.
“By better understanding why accidents are occurring, transport operators can play their part in ensuring 2012 is a safe year on Australian roads.”
A copy of the NTI 2011 Major Accident Investigation Report can be downloaded here.