Tow truck drivers face many dangers on the job, and it isn’t uncommon for them to lose their lives in the line of duty. Every year, dozens of tow truck drivers are killed while performing their job duties. This article takes a closer look at how many tow truck drivers are killed yearly and what can be done to prevent these tragedies.
Sadly, a significant number of tow truck drivers are killed each year in the United States alone. According to figures from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), more than 40 tow truck operators died from work-related injuries in 2018. This is an increase from prior years, with 37 fatalities reported in 2017 and 35 in 2016.
However, this may not be an accurate reflection of the true number of fatalities due to underreporting. Many deaths may not be reported as work-related due to inaccurate or incomplete recordkeeping. In addition, some states may not report fatalities that occur on private property.
Tow truck drivers are particularly susceptible to injury and fatality due to their work environment. They often work near busy roads with distracted drivers who do not always pay attention to their surroundings. In addition, there is a high risk of working with heavy equipment such as winches and hoists.
To reduce the number of deaths among tow truck operators, employers should take steps such as providing safety training and proper equipment maintenance. Drivers should also take precautions such as staying alert while on the job and wearing proper safety gear.
Conclusion:
Unfortunately, too many tow truck drivers lose their lives each year due to preventable accidents that could have been avoided with proper safety protocols. Employers should take steps to ensure that their workers are properly trained and equipped for their jobs, while drivers should always stay alert when on the job and wear appropriate gear. With these measures in place, hopefully we can reduce the number of fatalities among tow truck operators.
