In the past couple of years, the number of truck drivers has been on the rise. The trucking industry has opened its doors to job seekers around the US, and many have found this type of work a good way to earn some much-needed money.
Naturally, the job is difficult and comes with many disadvantages but it’s also a good way to quickly earn some money. The state of Montana has also witnessed an increase in the number of truck drivers, meaning its roads are now populated with trucks more than ever. However, with such a high number of trucks, the chances of accidents also increase. And truck accidents are no light matter (no pun intended).
Montana, with its vast open roads and rugged landscapes, plays an important role in the nation’s trucking industry. Semi-trucks transport essential goods across its highways, connecting local businesses and fueling the economy. However, trucking in Montana comes with certain risks.
From unpredictable weather to challenging terrain, the state’s environment can turn routine hauls into dangerous truck accidents. Understanding these dangers and the factors contributing to truck accidents is essential for drivers and trucking companies as well.
A Dangerous Landscape
Although rich in beautiful landscapes, Montana’s rural roads can be a threat to truck drivers. The state’s expansive highways, such as Interstate 90 and Interstate 15, often stretch through isolated areas where help is not readily available in case of emergencies.
So if you’re a truck driver who’s noticed some issue with the vehicle or you’re simply in need of a gas station to freshen up, chances are you won’t be able to find one so easily.
These routes can become particularly hazardous in winter when snowstorms and icy roads create dangerous driving conditions. Additionally, Montana’s mountainous terrain poses unique challenges, including steep inclines, sharp curves, and narrow passages. We’ll discuss this in detail in the paragraphs below.
The number of fatalities has also increased since last year, according to the newest report for 2024. Wildlife collisions are another frequent hazard, as large animals like deer often wander onto highways, especially at night.
Key Factors Contributing to Truck Accidents in Montana
We’ll dive a bit deeper into the challenges that truck drivers face in Montana. Make sure to read below to learn the most common factors causing these accidents.
1. Fatigue and Long Shifts
As you know, truck drivers drive very long hours and shifts, especially when faced with really tight deadlines. In many cases, fatigue is the number one reason for accidents. Also, distracted driving and speeding pop up as additional causes.
If a truck driver causes an accident due to the fact that they were faced with a tight deadline by the trucking company, that makes the company partially at fault. Trucking companies are known to disregard state policies and force drivers to take fewer breaks in order to be able to reach the deadlines.
In that case, the truck driver has the right to contact a truck accident lawyer and file a claim. If an accident took place due to the driver being unable to take a mandatory break, they also have the right to file a complaint against the trucking company.
It’s important that these issues be addressed so that trucking companies can finally stop setting unrealistic deadlines and forcing their drivers to work long hours.
2. Harsh Weather Conditions in Winter
Another common reason for trucking accidents, but also other types of accidents in Montana, is the unpredictable weather. Montana is notorious for its extreme weather, particularly during the winter months.
Snow, ice, and freezing rain can make roads slick and reduce visibility significantly, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Sudden weather changes are also common, catching even experienced drivers off guard. And, as the lowest temperatures are in December when the roads are also busy around the holidays, it’s important to take extra care during this period.
3. Challenging Roads and Terrain
The diverse geography of Montana includes mountain ranges, rolling plains, and remote highways. There are also rural roads that are not as busy but it also means these roads are not as well maintained as other roads.
While beautiful, the mountain landscapes can be dangerous for truck drivers as the sharp turns and narrow mountain roads require exceptional skill to navigate safely. So, for newbie truck drivers, this can definitely be a big challenge as you really need to be familiar with these roads.
4. Driver Error and Negligence
Once again, it’s important to stress the importance of keeping your eyes on the road. Despite the external challenges, human error remains a significant factor in trucking accidents, if not the biggest factor.
Speeding, distracted driving, and improper lane changes are common issues that can lead to collisions. Inexperienced drivers or those who are inadequately trained to handle Montana’s unique conditions may also struggle to maintain control of their vehicles, increasing the risk of accidents.
That’s why, if you’re a newbie truck driver, you need to take extra care and follow the traffic signs to make sure you’re driving safely and not putting anyone in danger.
5. The Final Word
Truck drivers are essential for today’s economy, but they need to be properly trained and realize the importance of focusing on the road at all times.
Truck driving is a demanding profession, especially in a state like Montana, where the terrain tests even the best of drivers. The combination of harsh weather, challenging terrain, and driver’s fatigue creates a hazardous environment for drivers. By understanding the factors that contribute to trucking accidents, drivers can take steps to improve safety for everyone on Montana’s roads.
For truck drivers and companies, prioritizing safety measures such as proper training, vehicle maintenance, and adherence to federal regulations is critical. Local authorities can also play a role by implementing infrastructure improvements and providing resources for drivers navigating these risks. Ultimately, creating safer highways in Montana requires a collective effort to address these challenges head-on.
