The Heavy-Duty Truck Study collects and analyzes data on how driver, vehicle, motor carrier, and environmental factors contribute to fatal crashes involving heavy-duty trucks, sometimes called large trucks. Heavy-duty trucks, or Class 7/8 trucks, have a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more. This includes truck-tractor semi-trailers, furniture trucks, garbage trucks, and cement trucks. The Heavy-Duty Truck Study focuses specifically on crashes that result in at least one fatality.

This data will enable States and local jurisdictions to develop data-backed safety policies and programs to reduce the number of crashes involving heavy-duty trucks. 

Heavy-Duty Truck Study Scope

The Heavy-Duty Truck Study will collect a nationally representative sample of data on 2,000 fatal crashes involving heavy-duty trucks from about 30 States identified as key sampling locations. Data will be collected over the course of two years, with a target start date of early 2026. 

After the data collection phase is complete, the data will be analyzed to identify crash trends and inform the development of effective, targeted safety policies and programs.

Timeline

Timing approximate; schedule subject to change.

 

2023–2024 

Information Collection  

FMCSA collects information from State and local jurisdictions about current post-crash data collection procedures. 

Study Design

States with key sampling locations are identified for a nationally representative sample. FMCSA develops the analysis plan. 

 

2024–2026 

Preparation for Data Collection

FMCSA creates a CCFP database, implements data protection measures, and develops tools and training to support data collection. 

 

 

2026–2028 

Study Execution 

Leveraging the work of State and local partners, FMCSA begins collecting data.   

Analysis

After two years of data collection, FMCSA begins analysis.

 

2029 

Database and Final Report

FMCSA releases a database of anonymized crash data for public use.

FMCSA releases the Heavy-Duty Truck Study final report. 

Note: Partial data findings and analysis will be released prior to the final report.