Driving a heavy-duty truck is one of the most dangerous jobs in America, and the industry has one of the highest workers’ compensation claim rates. This profession requires excessive hours of driving and typically leads to poor diets and little exercise, making truck drivers even more prone to work-related injuries.
Every trucking operation should have a long haul trucking insurance program in place in order to better protect their drivers and their vehicles. These are some of the most common causes of injury in the industry.
Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSD)
Injuries of the neck, back, and upper extremities can be caused by loading or unloading the truck or lifting boxes, cartons, containers, garbage cans, tanks or bins. They can also arise when using vehicle dollies or loaders and working on vehicle tires.
The majority of MSD claims occur as a result of overexertion during the loading process. Train all employees on proper lifting techniques.
Falls
Falling from vehicles, on stairs, and into openings are all possible causes of workplace injury for truckers. These injuries can occur when making deliveries on upper floors, exiting the truck or stepping into holes at loading or unloading areas. The most common injuries from elevation falls are knee and back sprains. Inform employees of these hazards and encourage them to only proceed with the utmost caution.
Ground-level fall injuries can occur when lifting the latch on the back of the truck, putting on tire chains or unloading the truck. Back and knee sprains are also the most common injuries caused by falls on the same level. Drivers should be instructed to consult with management before proceeding if they are unsure of certain maneuvers.
Struck by or Against Objects
Workers can hit or be hit by objects when lifting hitched trailers, opening containers and attaching trailers to trucks. The objects that a worker may be struck by include vehicle parts, lift-gates, winch bars, pallet jacks, boxes or cartons or binders and chains. The most common injuries caused by these incidences are back sprains and strains that occur when boxes or cartons fall on the driver.
All employees should be thoroughly trained in how to handle specific scenarios.
Vehicular Injuries
Over 50 percent of truck driver fatalities are caused by vehicle-related injuries. Workers may become badly injured if they lose control of the vehicle or collide with another car. Be extremely picky about who you hire, and screen their driving history thoroughly.
The injuries will depend on specific tasks. For instance, truck drivers delivering to residential areas may be at risk of slipping and falling on a porch when making a delivery. Those driving industrial trucks may be more likely to suffer injuries due to loading and unloading issues or problems with malfunctioning lift gates. This line of work is physically demanding and can take a major toll on the body. Not only is there a high risk of injury, but the labor-intensive nature of trucking jobs often means that an injury can end a career which is why long haul trucking insurance is so important.
About Tobico Trucking Insurance
Trucking insurance is one of the most difficult types of insurance to obtain, but it doesn’t have to be. At Tobico Trucking Insurance, we are experienced and knowledgable about the trucking insurance market and the needs of trucking operations of all types and sizes. You need an agent who has the specialized knowledge of this ever-changing industry, and we have the products and the dedicated customer service to provide you with what you need. For more information, contact us any time of day at (469) 731-0707 to find out how we can help you.
