How Many Tow Truck Drivers Died This Year?

Tow truck drivers are an essential part of society, and their jobs come with their own set of risks. Unfortunately, some of those risks result in fatalities. In 2019 alone, 29 tow truck drivers died in the line of duty.

The majority of these fatalities occurred due to accidents while performing their job duties. Of the 29 tow truck driver fatalities in 2019, 22 were caused by motor vehicle accidents. This accounts for more than 75% of all deaths among tow truck drivers this year.

These deadly motor vehicle accidents were often caused by other motorists failing to observe traffic laws or yield the right-of-way to tow trucks on highways or roads. Distracted driving is a particularly common culprit; when motorists fail to keep their attention on the road, it can have dire consequences for any nearby workers or vehicles.

The other seven deaths among tow truck drivers in 2019 were caused by non-accident related causes. These included electrocution due to contact with overhead power lines and being struck by objects like falling tree branches or debris from other vehicles.

In order to prevent further fatalities among tow truck drivers, it is important that all motorists take extra caution when driving near them on the roads and highways. This includes following all posted speed limits and always yielding the right-of-way when necessary. Additionally, a number of safety campaigns have been launched across the country that aim to increase awareness of the dangers faced by tow truck drivers while they are on duty.

Conclusion: In 2019, 29 tow truck drivers died in accidents and non-accident related incidents while performing their duties. Motorists should be extra cautious when driving near them on roads and highways and follow all posted speed limits and yield the right-of-way when necessary in order to help reduce these tragic deaths.

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Susan Delgado