Why is a clear route plan essential for hazardous materials transportation?

A clear route plan is essential for hazardous materials transportation primarily because it minimizes risks by avoiding populated areas. This is critical because transporting hazardous materials poses inherent dangers to public safety in the event of an incident. By routing trucks away from densely populated areas, the potential for harm to civilians in case of a leak, spill, or accident is significantly reduced.

Additionally, a well-planned route can take into consideration factors such as road conditions, the presence of emergency services, and alternative paths, which can further enhance safety. While the other options may have some relevance to overall transportation efficiency or driver convenience, they do not specifically address the primary concern in hazardous materials transport, which is protecting public safety and preventing accidents.