Any traffic accident has the potential to be severe. However, truck accidents have the potential to be more catastrophic than other types of wrecks. Because trucks are so large, motor vehicle accidents involving them can be more destructive than traffic crashes involving cars and pickup trucks. In addition to causing more devastating wrecks, large trucks can cause traffic accidents that are too difficult for other vehicles sharing the road with the trucks to avoid. That is why it is especially important that drivers of passenger vehicles understand how to safely share the road with large trucks, because that is the best way to avoid truck accidents.
Tips for Avoiding Truck Accidents
As stated earlier, the key to avoiding truck accidents is knowing how to properly share the road with tractor-trailer trucks. Here are a few tips for how to safely share the road with big rigs and avoid truck accidents:
- Keep Your Distance – It is difficult to see what is ahead if you are following a truck. That’s why it is a good idea to keep your distance when you are behind a truck. Unlike when you have a clear view of the road ahead, you won’t be able to anticipate traffic jams or obstacles in the road. So, instead of being able to slow down gradually or steer clear of the obstacle carefully, if you are behind a truck, you may have to stop suddenly or swerve to avoid an object in the road. Keeping your distance will allow you time to stop quickly or swerve without rear-ending the truck or hitting any other vehicles near you. In addition, trucks need extra time to stop because they are so big, so if you pass a truck, leave more room behind your vehicle than normal if you change lanes in front of the truck. That will give the truck extra room to stop without rear-ending your vehicle in case you encounter a traffic jam or obstacle in the road.
- Avoid Blind Spots – Due to their size, trucks have larger blind spots than passenger vehicles. If your vehicle is behind a tractor-trailer truck or beside it and you enter one of its blind spots, you should not stay there long. If truck drivers can’t see you, they may change lanes while you are beside them, which could cause a devastating wreck. In addition, if your vehicle is behind a truck and the trucker can’t see you, they could back up into you, which could have catastrophic consequences. If possible, try to pass the truck on the driver’s side, because it is easier for the driver to see you’re there. Also, if you can’t see the truck driver’s reflection in the truck’s side mirror, then the driver can’t see you.
- Pass with Caution – As stated above, trucks have large blind spots, so if you pass a truck, you should do it as safely and quickly as possible. It helps you spend as little time as necessary in the truck’s blind spots. Passing quickly also prevents you from lingering near trucks and getting involved in a wreck if the truck needs to make a sudden stop, must change lanes immediately, or loses control because of a tire blowout.
Discuss Your Situation with an Experienced Truck Accident Attorney for Free
At Katz, Kantor, Stonestreet & Buckner, PLLC, we have been helping clients in West Virginia with their legal problems since 1931. Our experienced truck accident lawyers know what it takes to help victims and their families in the aftermath of a devastating truck accident. We have a history bringing negligent trucking companies and truckers to justice and helping clients recover the compensation they need for job loss, current and future medical costs, and living expenses.
To schedule a free consultation with our experienced truck accident attorneys, call us at (304) 713-2014 or get in touch us online.
