Over 1000 People Have Died in Oklahoma From Truck-Related Accidents Since 2000

Jeremy Thurman

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A recent Tulsa World article has done a thorough analysis of fatality tractor-trailer accidents in Oklahoma. According to the article

More than 1,000 people have died in some 14,000 truck-related accidents in Oklahoma since 2000. That includes 118 deaths in 2008 and 39 so far this year, said Capt. Craig Medcalf of the Oklahoma Highway Patrol. It also includes 66 deaths on I-40 and at least 36 on I-44.

Oklahoma County typically leads the state in the number of truck-related crashes, fatalities and injuries each year, with Tulsa County usually placing second in all three categories.

What can we learn from this article? I think first is you must remember that these 50000 lbs trucks crush you when they hit you. Getting hit by a semi does not result in a fender-bender. So remember, especially when you are on these high traffic corridors, pay special respect to these tractor-trailers. Give them room to move, stay a safe distance behind or to the side of these big rigs. I for one attempt to never travel at an equal speed while next to a tractor-trailer. I will purposefully get ahead (not in the same lane) and/or slow down and maintain a safe distance behind the semi.

I fully realize most people would tell me I’m stating the obvious. However, I can’t tell you how many people I see daily ignoring the deadly dangers of these trucks.