Truck Accident Prevention

large truck

Chances are if you're driving on a highway, you're going to be passing a truck on two on your commute. Driving by trucks can be scary because of their large size compared to a typical passenger car. According to a study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 1 in 3 commercial truck drivers have experienced a severe crash during their career.

The fear of getting involved in a trucking accident can be nerve-wracking. Remember these tips when you find yourself sharing the road with a large truck.

For Motorist

  1. Avoid being in a truck's blind spot – Since trucks are so large, it's easy for the driver not to be able to see smaller cars. If you cannot see the driver's face in their side mirror, chances are they cannot see you. Always pass trucks on the driver's side because they have a wider blind spot range
  2. Avoid distractions – Distracted driving is the leading cause of accidents. Although driving on the highway can be long and boring at times, stay focused on the road.
  3. Give more following space – By trucks being so large, they limit your visibility of the road ahead, making it difficult to see road hazards like construction, things on the road, or stopped traffic. Leave plenty of room, so you give yourself more opportunity to react. This is the same for passing a truck as well. Never cut in front of a truck unless you have plenty of room.

For Truck Drivers

  1. Follow regulations – Truck drivers are required to follow the rules and regulations that stipulate the amount of time on the road and how much sleep they must get. Following these rules will help avoid collisions with other drivers. Also, be sure not to drive under the influence. Drugs and alcohol can impair vision, judgment, and reaction time, increasing an accident's likelihood.
  2. Follow the speed limit – Not only is speeding against the law, but it also puts everyone on the road at risk. Trucks are large, making it easier to lose control of the vehicle when speed limits are exceeded. Adjust speed if needed when in bad weather conditions.
  3. Know your truck – As a truck driver, it's required to have a valid commercial driver's license (CDL). It's essential to be familiar with the type of truck you are driving, how to know something is wrong, and overall how it operates. Maintenance is also important to prevent malfunctions like brake failure and steering problems.

We Can Help

If you or someone you love has been involved in a trucking accident, contact an attorney at our offices right away. You may be entitled to financial compensation, and we want to help you get it. With years of experience fighting cases like yours, we have what it takes to get you the justice you deserve.

Call us today at (432) 220-2649 or visit us online to schedule a free case review with a member of our team.