Which of the following is a primary safety concern for commercial drivers?

Fatigue management is a primary safety concern for commercial drivers because it directly affects their ability to operate a vehicle safely. Commercial drivers often work long hours and may face tight schedules, which can lead to fatigue. This fatigue can significantly impair their reaction times, decision-making abilities, and overall attentiveness while driving, thus increasing the risk of accidents.

Regulatory guidelines, such as the Hours of Service rules, have been implemented to combat this issue by limiting the number of hours a driver can operate without adequate rest. Ensuring drivers manage their fatigue through proper rest and adherence to these regulations is crucial for maintaining safety on the roads, not only for the drivers but also for other road users.

While fuel efficiency, maintenance costs, and insurance rates are important considerations for commercial trucking operations, they do not directly impact the immediate safety of vehicle operation in the same way that fatigue management does.