by Citation News Editor
30. August 2010
The U.S. Department of Transportation's Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has released a new training video that will help make the highways safer for cargo tank drivers and motorists alike.
"Cargo tank rollovers are among the most serious types of large truck crashes, often resulting in fatalities and serious highway infrastructure damage," said Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. "Yet rollovers can be prevented and driver safety is the key. This video is a tool to encourage tank drivers to become more safety-conscious."
Cargo tank rollovers account for 31% of large truck rollover crashes. In 75% of those crashes, unsafe driver behaviors such as inattention or excessive speeding are the primary cause.
The video provides cargo tank drivers with best practices and safety tips on how to avoid rollover crashes while transporting hazardous materials. Developed in partnership with the Department's Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and the National Tank Truck Carriers, the "Cargo Tank Driver Rollover Prevention Video" uses driver interviews and on-road scenarios to highlight the factors that contribute to rollovers.
"Tank truck rollovers are considerably more dangerous when they involve hazardous materials," said PHMSA Administrator Cynthia Quarterman. "Improved cargo tank truck driver safety will also benefit the general public that shares the highways."
The video focuses on the four areas that affect the potential for a rollover: vehicle design, cargo load, highway factors and driver safety.
To view the video online, visit http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/about/outreach/cargo-tank-video.aspx.
