How to Avoid 18 Wheeler Accidents
It can be devastating to your loved ones or yourself when they are involved in a collision with a truck. These accidents can result in severe injuries and change your life forever.
A lawyer for truck accidents can assist you in obtaining the compensation that you deserve for your losses. An experienced attorney can help you focus on getting better during this difficult time.
1. Speeding
Driving at high speeds can be dangerous for everyone including pedestrians and drivers. This behavior can lead to crashes with fatal consequences including wrongful death and serious injuries. Speeding can also result in higher insurance costs and points on a driver's record.
An accident with an 18-wheeler can be devastating. These huge trucks are hefty and can cause significant damage to smaller vehicles. This can be very painful for the passengers of the smaller vehicle that is hit and can even cause life-threatening injuries depending on the severity of the collision.
Fortunately, there are some things drivers can do to reduce their risk of being involved in an 18 wheeler accident. The first thing that should be taken care of is to avoid speeding at all costs.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration states that speeding was responsible for one-third of all traffic deaths in 2020. This is a major issue that needs to be addressed.
Another error motorists make is driving too quickly in the weather. For example, when it rains or the road has to be repaired. This can result in collisions with other vehicles, for example, pedestrians and bike riders.
Speeding is particularly dangerous for drivers who are young. They are less likely to have the knowledge and experience of older drivers when it comes down to the law.
Drowsy and intoxicated drivers are more likely to drive over the speed limit or be too fast for conditions. This is due to the fact that they may not be paying attention to the road, or might not realize how close they are to other cars and trucks.
Drivers can also fail to see an intersection's stop sign or a red light if they drive too fast. This can increase the chance of a driver falling over. This is especially true if the driver is in an 18 wheeler because they are much larger than regular passenger vehicles.
2. Moving trucks through with caution
If you're on a highway or an interstate, there might be times when it's necessary to move around a truck. In these instances you must always do so with caution to avoid getting into an accident.
Trucks weigh more than passenger cars, therefore they take longer to stop and slow down. You should give them enough time to respond to you signals and then move to the right when passing.
You should always leave at least four seconds between your vehicle and the truck that you are passing. This will allow plenty of time for you to react to the actions of the truck and avoid a collision.
You should also never cut in front a truck in the process of changing lanes or exiting the highway. This can be dangerous, since the blind spot of a truck could make it difficult for the driver to see you. They may be distracted by their cell phone or other device that could cause them to lose control of the vehicle.
Maintain a safe distance you and the truck, particularly if you're driving in the left section of a divided road or a one-way street. You can avoid the blind areas of the truck and stay clear of its area of fire should they lose control or jackknife.
Make sure you notify the driver ahead of time about your intentions and give the driver plenty of time to respond. This will prevent an accident and increase your chances of avoiding a serious accident.
When passing on a two-lane highway or interstate be sure to avoid crossing a double white solid line or broken line of yellow. This could cause interference with other drivers on the road and could result in a serious crash.
It's not necessary to be terrified of a large commercial truck. You can ensure your safety and avoid accidents with 18-wheelers by following these simple steps.
If you've been injured in an accident involving an 18 wheeler, call our team at Cesar Ornelas Law today for an initial consultation for free and determine if we can help you obtain compensation.
3. Try to get out of the way
18 wheelers, also referred to as tractor-trailers, are massive machines that transport freight across the country. It is important to be aware of what to look out for when driving.
The most effective way to avoid an 18-wheeler accident is to be aware of them and stay out of their way. You should never merge with or go through a commercial truck directly in front.
Another important point is to stay clear of blind spots on a truck. These include the interior of the cab, behind it and along both sides of the vehicle. The cab is typically the most difficult part of the truck to view, and a well-placed mirror can make a significant difference.
If you have to merge, you should signal clearly so the trucker knows what you are planning to do. This can be accomplished by activating your hazard lamp and turning on your headlights when you get close to the vehicle ahead of you.
The trucker might not see your vehicle and therefore not be able to slow down in enough time to avoid an accident. The vehicle could also have a high center of gravity, which can cause the driver to lose control and hit you from the rear or the front.
Being out of the way of an 18-wheeler is not only the sexiest thing you can do on the road, but it's also the most secure. The biggest risk is that a truck running away can end up in an accident that could be fatal. Other risks are that the vehicle may hit you on a curve, or have a hot brake, which could lead to an accident.
4. Trying to Pass a Passenger Vehicle
You've probably been through this scene as a motorist: you're stuck in traffic with a large truck, and you need to get past it so that you can reach your destination. However, doing this can result in accidents with 18 wheelers if done properly.
The truth is that passing trucks can be dangerous for both the driver and the passenger, especially in winter weather conditions, when being more cautious is imperative to stay safe on the road. In fact, 75 percent of all commercial vehicle accidents are caused by drivers in passenger vehicles, which is why it is crucial to be aware of what not to do when trying to pass trucks.
It is important to note that semis have a much longer blind zone than passenger vehicles. This is due to their long trailers are blocking their driver's vision. It's important to be careful when you attempt to pass them.
When you pass, make sure to stay in the left lane. Be 18 wheeler accident attorney west valley city to leave plenty of room around the vehicle. This will keep you from being hit by a vehicle, which is often the case in 18-wheeler collisions.
Also, be aware that the brakes of a truck take longer to stop than a passenger car's. It is also important to give the truck sufficient time to stop before it approaches your vehicle.
Watch out for tire blowouts that could send debris over the road into your lane. Also, be aware that a semi's trailer can slide into your lane, which can be especially dangerous during windy weather.
Also, make sure you use your turn signals when you pass a truck. This will let the truck driver see you and will let them know when it's safe to change lanes.
Incorporating all of these factors in consideration will help you be safe on the road with trucks. If you've been involved in an accident involving a truck do not hesitate to contact the experienced 18 wheeler accident lawyers at Cesar Ornelas Law for a no-cost case review. We can assist you in recovering damages to compensate for your injuries and damage to property.