Tow truck drivers put their lives at risk every day they go to work. They are exposed to dangerous road conditions and often interact with volatile individuals. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, tow truck drivers are among the most dangerous jobs in the United States, with an annual fatality rate of 30.9 per 100,000 workers.
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) estimates that over 100 tow truck drivers die each year in the United States due to workplace injuries or illnesses. This figure includes deaths caused by motor vehicle accidents as well as other on-the-job incidents, such as falls and electrocutions.
The majority of fatalities occur while tow truck drivers are on duty. This can be attributed to their frequent exposure to traffic hazards, such as congested roads, narrow shoulders, and high speeds. Additionally, drivers may be distracted by cell phone use or other distractions while operating their vehicle.
In addition to motor vehicle accidents, tow truck drivers are at risk for other workplace injuries and illnesses. These can include musculoskeletal disorders from lifting heavy objects or slips and falls from wet surfaces or slippery surfaces in a garage setting.
Preventing Tow Truck Driver Fatalities
There are several measures that can be taken by employers and operators of tow trucks to reduce the number of fatalities among their employees:
- Ensuring that all vehicles have functioning safety equipment such as seat belts, airbags and headlights.
- Providing driver safety training courses for all employees.
- Conducting regular inspections of vehicles before they leave the lot.
- Enforcing speed limits in congested areas.
- Adhering to all applicable federal regulations pertaining to safe operation of commercial motor vehicles.
Conclusion:
Tow truck drivers face a variety of risks on a daily basis that can lead to injury or death. It is estimated that over 100 tow truck drivers die each year due to workplace injuries or illnesses. By taking steps such as providing safety training courses for employees and enforcing speed limits in congested areas, employers can reduce the number of fatalities among their employees.
