How to Avoid 18 Wheeler Accidents
If you or someone you love is involved in an accident with a commercial truck it could be a devastating experience. These collisions are usually the reason for serious injuries and may change your life for good.
A lawyer who handles truck accidents can help you obtain the compensation you're entitled to for damages. 18 wheeler accident case somerville can assist you in getting better during this difficult time.
1. Speeding
Driving at a high speed is risky for everyone, including drivers and pedestrians. This behavior can lead to accidents that can be fatal including wrongful death and serious injury. Speeding can result in increased insurance costs and points added to the driver's driving record.
A collision caused by an 18-wheeler is devastating. These massive trucks are very heavy and can cause substantial damage to smaller vehicles. This can be extremely painful for the passengers of the small vehicle struck and may result in life-threatening injuries depending on the nature 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 step is to avoid any kind of speeding.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration according to the agency, speeding was responsible for one-third all traffic deaths in 2020. This is a huge problem that must be addressed.
Another mistake that drivers make is to drive too fast for the conditions, such as in the event of rain or when the road is being repaired. This can also cause accidents with other vehicles such as motorcycle riders and pedestrians.
Speeding is particularly dangerous for young drivers. This is due to the fact that they are more likely to lack the experience and knowledge older drivers have when it comes to the laws of the road.
Drivers who are drunk and drowsy are also more likely to drive above the speed limit or go too fast for the conditions. This is due to the fact that they might not be paying at all to the road ahead or might not realize how close they are to other cars and trucks.
A driver can also miss a stop sign or red light by driving too fast. This can also increase the risk of a driver falling over. This can be especially dangerous when the driver is driving an 18-wheeler, since they are larger than regular passenger cars.
2. Passing Trucks With Caution
If you're driving on a highway or interstate, there may be instances where you need to move around a truck. In these situations, you should always take care to avoid getting into a collision.
It is important to remember that trucks weigh more than passenger cars and, therefore, they require longer to stop and slow down. It is recommended to give them plenty of time to react to your signals and move to the right when passing.
You should always allow at least four second between your vehicle and the truck you're traveling by. This ensures that you'll have plenty of time to react to their actions and prevent a crash.
It is also not advisable to cut in front a truck in the process of changing lanes or leaving the highway. This can be dangerous as a truck driver's blind spot could make it difficult for them to see you. They may also be distracted by their cell phone or other device that could result in them losing vehicle control.
Maintain a safe distance between you and the truck, particularly when driving in a left section of a divided road or one-way street. You can avoid the blind spots of the truck and stay out of the area of fire should they lose control or strike jackknife.
Be sure to signal well prior to your intentions and allow them plenty of time respond. This will prevent an accident and increase your chances of avoiding serious accident.
When crossing a two-lane highway or interstate do not cross a double solid white line, or a broken line of yellow. This could cause a problem for other drivers on the road and could result in a serious crash.
It's not necessary to be terrified of a commercial truck that is large. You can protect yourself and avoid 18-wheeler accidents by following these simple guidelines.
Contact us at Cesar Ornelas Law for a free consultation today and find out if you can receive compensation if you've been injured during a collision involving an 18-wheeler.
3. In a bid to get out of the Way
18 wheelers, also referred to as tractor-trailers, are enormous machines used to haul freight across the country. It is important to know what to look out for when driving.
The best method to avoid an 18-wheeler accident is to stay out of their way. It is not recommended to merge or move past a commercial vehicle directly in front of.
Another important tip is to avoid blind spots in trucks. These include the inside of the cab, behind the cab and on both sides of the vehicle. The cab is usually the most difficult part of the truck to see and a mirror that is well-placed can make a big difference.
If you have to merge, signal your intentions clearly so that the trucker is aware the merge. This can be done by activating your hazard lights and switching on your headlights when you are approaching the vehicle in front of you.
There is a possibility that the trucker won't be able to see your vehicle, and might not be at a safe speed enough to avoid a crash. The vehicle could also have a very high center of gravity. This can cause the driver to lose control and could hit you from the front or rear.
It's not only safest to get out of the way of an 18-wheeler but it's also the sexually attractive. The biggest risk is that a vehicle speeding away could quickly turn into a deadly accident. Other dangers include a vehicle that is able to hit you on an angle or have a hot break that could result in an accident.
4. In attempting to pass a passenger vehicle
As an driver, you've probably encountered this gruelling scene on the highway when you're stuck behind a large truck and need to pass it to get there. If you don't perform the task correctly, it can cause 18-wheeler accidents.
It's important to be cautious when passing trucks, especially in winter weather conditions. 75 percent of accidents involving commercial vehicles are caused in passenger cars. Therefore, it is crucial to be aware of how to pass by the truck in a safe manner.
It is important to note that semis have a wider blind spot than passenger vehicles. This is due to their long trailers block their driver's view. So, it's very important to be careful when you attempt to pass them.
When you pass, try to keep to the left and leave plenty of room around the vehicle. This will prevent you from getting rear-ended. This is often the case in 18-wheeler collisions.
Also, be aware that a truck's brakes require a longer time to slow down than a passenger car's. It's also important to allow the truck enough space to stop when it's near your vehicle.
Be aware of tire blowouts that can send debris across the road into your lane. Additionally, keep in mind that a semi's trailer can slide into your lane, which can be especially dangerous in a storm.
Use your turn signals when passing the truck. This will allow the truck driver to see you, and it will allow them to be aware of when it is safe to change lanes.
These factors will enable you drive more safely when you're on the roads with trucks. If you've been in an accident involving a truck don't hesitate to contact the experienced 18 wheeler accident lawyers at Cesar Ornelas Law to arrange a free case evaluation. We can help you recover damages to cover your injuries as well as damage to property.