How New Energy Taxes Could Affect Truck Accidents

Dr. Joseph R. Mason, Endowed Banking Chair at Louisiana State University, reports that the proposed new energy tax changes will include the following fallout over the next ten years:

• Initial losses of over 154,000 jobs by the end of 2011, not only in the energy sector but across the whole economy;

• More than $341 billion in lost U.S. economic output; and

• In excess of $68 billion in lost wages nationwide.

Mason reports that the administration plans to single out the U.S. oil and gas industry which will raise the cost of energy for consumers by eliminating tax credits that all taxpayers are entitled to.

Mason goes on to report that politicians may think they are targeting Big Oil but the proposals will hurt thousands of small American businesses. He believes there are at least 150,000 jobs at risk.

Now, how might this affect the trucking industry and truck accident rates? This does require connecting a few dots.

One, if trucking company expenses go up, they will do what they can to compensate for their loss of profit. Two, there is already a shortage of drivers and driver fatigue is a problem. Three, firms will be reluctant to hire, making the issue of driver shortage and fatigue worse. While the trucking industry must be held accountable, it is important to note pressures that may put additional strain on drivers and possibly increase accident rates.

Actually, Dr. Mason provides conservative estimates of the economic impacts. The economic fallout could be even worse, and that will further impact the trucking industry.

The Save U. S. Energy Jobs project sponsored Dr. Mason’s report. This organization is an alliance dedicated to promoting the energy industry.

The Young Firm in New Orleans understands the serious nature of automobile and truck accidents and the injuries that can result. Our firm will investigate the causes of any accident and pursue appropriate legal action.

Call a Louisiana car and truck accident attorney today at (866) 660-7220 for a free and confidential consultation if you have been involved in a car accident or an accident with a truck.