Bobtailing is a dangerous yet fairly common scene on US roads. The risks of bobtail trucks are numerous, from stability issues to increased chances of rear-end accidents. It is essential for truck drivers and other motorists alike to understand the dangers associated with bobtail trucks and drive accordingly.
In this article, we will define what bobtailing is and why it may cause truck accidents.
What Is Bobtailing?
Bobtailing refers to the act of operating a truck without a trailer attached to it. Essentially, it is the act of driving only the front part of the vehicle.
Bobtailing is mostly a waste of money to trucking companies and only happens when it is necessary, like:
- After a driver drops off a load
- When a truck driver is on their way to pick up a new load
- Driving to the maintenance shop
Even though bobtailing seems harmless, it alters the normal functioning of the truck. Most truck drivers undergo training in bobtailing to understand how to operate a truck in such circumstances.
Why Is Bobtailing Dangerous?
As mentioned, bobtailing affects a truck’s dynamics. Here are reasons why it is extremely dangerous and the risks posed to other motorists.
Reduced Stability
One of the reasons why bobtailing is risky is because it reduces the stability of a truck. When a trailer is attached, it adds extra weight that helps the vehicle remain more stable. Without this weight, the truck becomes top-heavy and prone to tipping.
Compromised Braking
Secondly, bobtailing compromises a truck’s braking system. Since trucks are designed to carry heavy loads, most of their braking power is in the rear wheels. The lack of a load means the truck has less mass to help it decelerate since the rear wheels lack sufficient traction.
This means a truck might take longer to stop, thus increasing the risk of collisions. Vehicles should avoid overtaking or driving in front of a bobtail truck unless there is enough distance between the two.
Increased Possibilities of Rear-end Collisions
Since a bobtail truck misses the trailer attachment, it may be less visible to other motorists. This is fairly common on busy and congested roads. Other drivers may not anticipate the bobtail truck’s speed or size, thus increasing the risk of rear-end collisions.
Poor Turning Radius
Without the trailer, a bobtail’s truck turning radius is affected. The missing length and load can cause the truck to behave unpredictably, causing jerky movements that may lead to accidents.
Also, it is not uncommon for truck drivers to misjudge or make sudden turns when bobtailing. Since the braking system is already compromised, the risk of accidents automatically increases.
How Trucking Companies Can Reduce the Risk of Bobtailing
There are some measures trucking companies can take to reduce the tremendous risks associated with bobtailing. Here are some roles they can play:
Training and Education
Trucking companies can offer extensive training for drivers to ensure they are familiar with bobtailing. By providing courses on how to handle the altered braking, stability, and turning, the risks of bobtail truck accidents are reduced.
Additionally, they can offer refresher training to focus on safety while bobtailing in extreme weather conditions and congested roads.
Establish Clear Safety Protocols
Companies should have clear measures around bobtailing, such as the distance a driver can cover and weather conditions to avoid. By having clear guidelines on when bobtailing is appropriate, drivers can make safer choices to reduce the chances of accidents.
Regular Maintenance and Inspection
When a truck is bobtailing, safety features like brakes, suspension systems, and tires must be inspected. Companies can ensure vehicles are maintained and regularly serviced to ensure the truck’s stability and braking power are as required.
Conclusion
Bobtailing is common and sometimes necessary. However, it increases the risk of accidents, primarily because of reduced stability and altered braking systems, especially for drivers who are not well trained. Truck drivers need to be aware of the risks associated with bobtailing to reduce the chances of accidents.
