Heavy Goods Vehicle Drivers’ Insights on Crash Contributing Factors in Rigid and Articulated Lorries

Abstract

Heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) are vital to the logistics industry, but their involvement in road traffic crashes in Malaysia raises concerns. Differences in design and operation between rigid and articulated lorries lead to varying crash outcomes. This study examines crash-contributing factors from the driver’s perspective through an online survey of 424 HGV drivers. Contingency table analysis found that older drivers (>59 years), those driving articulated lorries with extensive experience (≥10 years), and extended driving durations (>12 hours) significantly increased crash likelihood. Factors contributing to rigid lorry crashes include lack of sleep, reckless driving, fatigue, brake deficiency, and tyre bursts, while articulated lorries are influenced by reckless driving, speeding, traffic violations, adverse weather conditions and tyre bursts. Inadequate road signage and poor street lighting were significant factors for both types. These findings provide valuable insights for developing targeted safety measures specific to each HGV type to improve overall road safety.