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This manual has been prepared
as part of the ongoing effort within the FHWA to reduce the number of vehicle
accidents on the highway. It is the result of a DOT investigation into the
primary causes of commercial vehicle accidents and the development of
countermeasures which could be used to improve traffic safety. The focus is on
improved safety management, preventive maintenance and defensive driving.
Vehicle design and highway design factors are not addressed.
Safety specialists can use this manual to assist them in guiding carrier
companies toward improved safety. Safety management within carrier companies can
use this manual to promote dialogue among its staff relating to vehicle accident
analysis and prevention. Maintenance personnel and drivers can benefit from
reviewing and practicing the many safety tips provided specifically for their
area of responsibilities.
The manual addresses accidents which can be prevented through reasonably
expected performance by drivers and carriers. It presents means for improving
such performance. However, it does not set out criteria for judging whether the
performance of drivers and carriers in particular circumstances are reasonable.
Nor is the manual intended to be an interpretation of Federal Motor Carrier
Safety Regulations.
It is recognized that many accidents result from causes beyond the reasonable
control of carriers and their drivers. Such accidents are not preventable with
respect to the carrier and driver and are therefore not addressed in this
manual.
In addition to assistance from the Office of Motor Carriers, the help and
guidance provided by the following organizations is acknowledged:
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Insurance
Institute for Highway Safety
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American
Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials
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Motor
Vehicle Manufacturers Association
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America's Road
Team
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National
Private Truck Council
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American
Trucking Association
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National
Highway Traffic & Safety Administration
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Commercial
Vehicle Safety Alliance
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Overland
Transportation System, Inc.
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Consolidated
Freightways
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Robert
Foreman Associates
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Lancer
Insurance Company
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Transport
Service Company
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Leaseway
Transportation
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Triodyne Inc.
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Special
thanks to T. Zabinski in the Triodyne Graphic Communications Department for
designing and developing the format of the manual.
Suggestions and
comments for future editions would be welcomed by the FHWA.
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