TRUCK SAFETY REPORT

The results are presented and discussed of a recent 2-phase Saskatchewan study. In the study, provincial records of accidents were combined with estimates of distance travelled to develop accident rates. It showed that large trucks have a safety record about as good as other vehicles on the road. The study, however, did not deal with the disparity in size and weight between heavy trucks and cars. The study found that the new C-train may not be as safe as was hoped. The study also examined the cause of accidents. It was found that only 35% of truck accidents could be related to the type of configuration. This study was the first in Canada to make estimates on the basis of over-the-road data of the safety performance of truck-semitrailer combinations, A-trains, B-trains, and C-trains. Criticism is expressed against research that has influenced recent policy changes in Canada. It is noted that future research should be aimed at driver training which is the most cost-effective and productive target for truck safety.