Highway and link road accidents are a common problem. Several small and big accidents occur daily around the world. It is not easy to determine who is at fault for such accidents. Nobody ever wants to be involved in a road accident.
The most controversial thing is when big vehicles like trucks, buses, or lorries are held responsible for an accident. It is often seen that big vehicles are blamed even when they are not at fault. This problem is not only due to the size of the vehicles but there are many other reasons and assumptions behind it.
Why are big vehicles always considered guilty?
It is an assumption that truck, bus, SUV, and lorry drivers are responsible for road accidents. However, negligence by smaller vehicle drivers also plays a significant role.
Big vehicles and prejudice
There is a common belief that big vehicles create more risk on the road. Seeing their size and weight, people assume that they must be at fault in any accident, but this assumption is not always correct. Many times accidents happen due to the carelessness of small vehicles trying to overtake or moving from the wrong side.
Braking system and physical limitations
The braking system of big vehicles is slower than that of small vehicles. It takes time to control their speed. If a small vehicle suddenly comes in front, then the big vehicle cannot stop immediately even if it wants to. In such a situation, an accident situation arises, and the big vehicle is considered guilty.
Bad road conditions
Bad roads and lack of proper road signs are also a big cause of accidents. Bad roads are more challenging for big vehicles. If an accident happens in such a situation, then also the big vehicle is blamed, whereas the fault lies with the road conditions.
Not following the rules
Small vehicle drivers often do not follow traffic rules. They turn without giving signals. They overtake from the wrong side or stop suddenly. In such a situation it becomes difficult to respond to the big vehicle.
Investigation
The role of police and administration is sometimes not to investigate accidents properly. The drivers of the large truck accidents are immediately arrested, or a fine is imposed on him. The reason for this is that the mentality of people and administration towards big vehicles is already negative.
Drink and Drive
It is the most common cause of road accidents. Some vehicle drivers operate cars, bikes, and other vehicles under the influence of alcohol and other substances, which also leads to road collisions.
The solution to the problem
Awareness campaign
It is necessary to make all types of drivers on the road aware of the traffic rules. Drivers of small vehicles should be taught to maintain a proper distance from big vehicles and understand their limitations.
Technological improvements
Cameras and sensors should be installed on roads so that the causes of accidents can be properly investigated. This will make it clear who is at fault, and there can be justice in the attribution of blame.
Training for drivers
Drivers of big vehicles should be given regular training so that they can drive safely even in difficult situations. One of them is not to park trucks and other large vehicles beside the road.
Administrative improvements
Police and administration should be impartial in investigating accidents. Blaming someone just on the basis of the size of the big vehicle should be avoided.
Conclusion
The issue of attribution of blame in accidents is very serious. It is not fair to always blame the drivers of big vehicles. We need to understand that everyone should behave responsibly on the road. This problem can be solved only by following traffic rules, proper road management, and fair investigation. Only then can we move towards a safe and just transport system.
