Tow truck drivers are an important part of our society, providing assistance to those stranded on the roadside. Unfortunately, the job of a tow truck driver is often a dangerous one.
According to OSHA, in 2018 tow truck drivers had the highest number of fatalities in the highway maintenance industry. This means that tow truck drivers are more at risk of death than any other roadway worker.
The risks for tow truck drivers are wide-ranging and many. Drivers often work long hours and can be exposed to harsh weather conditions that make the job more difficult and potentially dangerous.
They also must navigate busy highways and roads, which can be hazardous with distracted or impaired drivers present. Additionally, due to their job’s unique nature, they are exposed to traffic much more frequently than most other occupations.
Tow truck drivers also face hazards due to their own actions when working on a vehicle. Many times they must use ramps or platforms to get beneath a vehicle which can cause slips and falls, as well as exposure to hazardous materials such as gasoline or oil.
In 2018 alone, there were at least 33 fatalities involving tow truck operators in the United States according to OSHA records. The majority of these deaths were caused by motor vehicle accidents while others involved slips or falls while performing maintenance on a vehicle.
Unfortunately, no matter how experienced or careful a driver is, it is impossible for them to control the actions of other motorists or environmental hazards, making them particularly vulnerable when on the job. In order to protect tow truck drivers from potential harm, it is important for employers to provide proper training and safety protocols for all employees.
Conclusion:
The number of deaths involving tow truck operators per year remains high despite increasingly stringent safety regulations and protocols put in place by employers. The risks associated with this line of work are numerous and varied but can be reduced with better training and caution taken by both employers and employees alike. With these measures in place hopefully we can reduce the number of fatalities among tow truck operators in years to come.
