The federal agency in charge of commercial vehicle safety reports that speeding was the single most frequent driver-related cause of fatal truck accidents. Interestingly, speeding was also the most frequent driver-related cause of fatal accidents in private passenger vehicles.

At least for drivers of large trucks, the second most frequent fatal error was distracted or inattentive driving. While most people associate distracted driving with being on one's cell phone, it is important to remember that any number of things, like a radio, an object alongside the road or even one's own thoughts and daydreams can lead to distracted driving.

For passenger vehicles, the second most common error was driver impairment, a category that includes not only drunk or drugged driving but also fatigued driving or driving while suffering from an illness or other physical condition.

If anything, this report should serve as an important reminder to truckers who drive in and through the Jeffersonville area and the rest of Louisville's Indiana suburbs that they need to observe the posted speed limit at all times. Moreover, they should also remember that posted speed limits contemplate ideal traveling conditions, and truckers must slow down for things like bad weather or heavy traffic.

When a trucker gives in to the temptation to rush, perhaps in an attempt to meet a deadline or get a delivery done fast, he is putting his own life, as well as the life of those around him, at great risk. Should he wind up hurting someone while speeding, he and his employer can be held accountable in a civil claim alleging negligence.