Industry Action Drives Truck Safety

A new report from the National Truck Accident Research Centre (NTARC) has revealed positive trends in truck safety, with fewer major heavy vehicle crashes caused by inattention, distraction, or inappropriate speed.

The NTARC Major Incident Investigation Report 2025, developed in partnership with the National Road Safety Partnership Program (NRSPP) and Monash University Accident Research Centre (MUARC), found that inattention and distraction accounted for 17.9% of all major incidents in 2024, down 1.6% from the previous year. Incidents related to inappropriate speed dropped by 7.6%, continuing a longer-term downward trend since 2019.

Dr Jasmine Proud from MUARC said human factors remain a key area for improvement.

“Inattention and distraction are most commonly linked to single-vehicle incidents, which means the industry is best placed to address these through continued focus on fatigue management, driver training and technology,” Dr Proud said.

Inadequate following distance was the second most common cause of human factor crashes, with 80% occurring in major cities. These incidents almost always involve another vehicle, often a car, underscoring the complexity of truck–car interactions.

“These crashes highlight that while professional truck drivers are well-trained, greater awareness among light vehicle drivers is vital,” Dr Proud added.

NTI Chief Executive Officer Janelle Greene said the annual NTARC report continues to help industry and policymakers focus on targeted safety action. For the first time, the 2025 report includes a State and Territory breakdown of incident data.

“Heavy vehicle drivers face one of the most unpredictable workplaces in Australia — from road conditions and load geometry to environmental hazards,” Ms Greene said.

“While human factors remain the leading cause of major incidents, we’re encouraged to see a measurable decline thanks to industry-led education, government-backed programs, and smarter technology.”

The report also highlights that in crashes involving both cars and trucks, heavy vehicles were not at fault in 85.7% of cases, reinforcing the need for continued education of light vehicle drivers.

Ms Greene said the timing of the report during Safe Work Month (October) was deliberate.

“Truck drivers deserve a safe workplace free from the risk of death or serious injury. Through the NTARC Partnership, we’ll continue to advance research and collaboration to better understand the risks faced by drivers who keep Australia moving.”