A life lost every 36 hour, says Miros’ study

Lorry safety is a pressing concern in Malaysia, with one life lost every 36 hours due to accidents involving heavy vehicles, according to the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (MIROS).

Over six years, 3,500 lorry accidents caused 1,457 deaths, highlighting the urgent need for action.

“Factors such as high speed and excessive lorry load contribute to a higher risk of death,” MIROS reported.

These incidents, often on highways, affect communities nationwide, urging residents to advocate for safer roads.

Understanding lorry safety risks

MIROS’s study shows highways pose the greatest lorry safety threat, with higher fatality rates than other roads.

“Accidents at bends are particularly dangerous,” the study noted, citing high speeds and overloaded lorries.

These factors amplify crash severity, endangering all road users.

Moreover, lorries’ size and force heighten risks.

“Lorry accidents carry a high risk of fatalities,” said road safety activist Mohamad Hisham Shafe.

From 2019 to 2024, 3,500 accidents led to 1,457 deaths, 473 serious injuries, and 1,076 minor ones, impacting families and communities.

Additionally, driver fatigue from long hours undermines lorry safety.

“Lorry drivers face fatigue,” Shafe explained.

Unbalanced cargo and excessive workloads further destabilize vehicles, increasing accident likelihood.

Furthermore, only 32% of operators followed the Industry Code of Practice for Road Transport Safety (ICOP) in 2022.

This low compliance reflects widespread neglect, making lorry safety a community priority.

Steps to improve lorry safety

Addressing lorry safety requires urgent action.

“Mechanical failure is a main cause of accidents,” Shafe noted.

Many lorries lack proper maintenance, with some using retreaded tyres, compromising roadworthiness. Regular inspections could prevent such failures.

Moreover, stricter enforcement of ICOP guidelines is essential.

“Operators are negligent in maintenance assessments,” Shafe stated.

ICOP mandates vehicle checks, driver training, and safety protocols, yet compliance remains low.

Communities can urge authorities to enforce these standards.

Additionally, tackling driver fatigue is critical.

“Transporters must track speed and braking daily,” Shafe urged.

Mandatory rest periods and load limits can reduce risks, protecting drivers and road users.

Furthermore, residents can report unsafe lorries to authorities, fostering safer roads.

Urge local authorities to enforce lorry safety regulations and support MIROS initiatives.

Lorry safety affects every Malaysian, with accidents claiming lives too often.

By advocating for maintenance, training, and enforcement, communities can drive change.