How to Avoid 18 Wheeler Accidents
When you or a loved one is involved in an accident with a commercial truck, it could be a devastating event. These collisions are often the cause of severe injuries, and can change your life for good.
A lawyer who handles truck accidents can help you obtain the compensation you deserve for the damage. It can be a difficult time, but a seasoned lawyer will keep you focused on healing.
1. Speeding
Drivers and pedestrians are all at risk if they drive too quickly. This kind of behavior can result in fatal crashes, leading to death or serious injury. Speeding can result in increased insurance costs and points added to a driver's driving record.
If an accident happens with an 18 wheeler, it can be especially devastating. These massive trucks carry huge weights, which means that they can cause a lot of damage to smaller vehicles that collide with them. The occupants of a tiny vehicle may suffer serious injuries and even death depending on the severity of the crash.
Fortunately, there are some things drivers can do to lessen the chance of being involved in an 18 wheeler accident. The first thing to be taken care of is to avoid speeding in any way possible.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that speeding caused one-third of all traffic deaths in 2020. This is a significant issue that must be addressed.
Another common mistake that drivers make is driving too fast for conditions, such as when it's raining or the road is being repaired. This can also cause accidents with other vehicles such as motorcycle riders and pedestrians.
Younger drivers are at a at risk of speeding. They are less likely to have the experience and understanding of older drivers when it comes to the laws.
Drivers who are drunk or drowsy are more likely to speed over the speed limit or too fast for the conditions. They may not be paying enough concentration to the road or they may not be aware that they're in close proximity to other cars and truck.
A driver could also miss the stop sign or red light by driving too fast. This can increase the likelihood of a rollover. This is particularly dangerous in the case of an 18 wheeler, because they are significantly larger than regular passenger cars.
2. Beware of passing trucks.
You may have to drive by a truck on an highway or interstate. In these situations you must be cautious to avoid the risk of causing an accident.
18 wheeler accident law firm kentucky weigh more than passenger cars, therefore they take longer to stop and slow down. You should give them enough time to react to your signals and move to the right when passing.
You should always allow at least four seconds between your vehicle and the truck you are passing. This ensures that you'll have plenty of time to react to their actions and avoid a crash.
Additionally, you should never cut into the truck's path to change lanes or exit the highway. This could be dangerous since the truck driver's blind spot could make it difficult for them to see you. They could also be distracted by a mobile phone or other gadget that can cause them to lose control of their vehicle.
Keep a safe distance away from the truck, particularly when driving in the left lane of a divided highway. This will allow you to stay clear of the truck's blind spots and stay clear of fire should they lose control or get jackknifed.
Make sure to communicate your intentions prior to time and give them plenty of time to respond. This will help you avoid an accident, and increase your chances of avoiding a serious accident.
When you are driving on a two-lane highway or interstate be sure to avoid crossing a double white solid line or broken line of yellow. This can cause problems for other drivers on the road and could cause an accident of serious severity.
A big commercial truck can be a frightening image to motorists But it doesn't need to be frightening. You can safeguard yourself and avoid accidents with 18-wheelers by following these easy tips.
If you've been injured in an accident involving an 18 wheeler, call our team at Cesar Ornelas Law today for a free consultation and find out if we can help you seek compensation.
3. trying to get out of the Way
18 wheelers are big machines that haul freight across the country. It is important to be aware of the things to look out for when driving.
Often the best method to avoid an 18-wheeler accident is to keep out of the way. You should never merge with or drive by a commercial vehicle directly in front of.
Another important point is to avoid blind spots on trucks. These areas 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 huge difference.
If you are required to merge, make sure you communicate your intentions clearly so that the trucker is aware them. The best way to accomplish this is to turn on your hazard lights and switch on your headlights when you move towards the vehicle in front of you.
The trucker might not see the vehicle and will not be able to slow it down in enough time to avoid an accident. The vehicle could also have a high center of gravity. This could cause the driver to lose control and hit you either from the front or rear.
Getting out of the way of an 18-wheeler is not just the most sexiest thing you can do on the road, it's also the most secure. The most significant danger is that a rogue truck could easily turn into a fatal accident. Other dangers include a car that can crash into you on the bend or have a hot break which could cause an accident.
4. In attempting to pass a passenger vehicle
As an aspiring driver, you've likely witnessed this depressing scene on the road: you're stuck behind a large truck and must pass it to get to your destination. If you don't perform the task properly, this could cause 18-wheeler accidents.
The truth is that passing trucks can be hazardous for both the driver and the passenger, especially in winter weather conditions when driving more carefully is essential to remain safe on the road. 75 percent of all accidents involving commercial vehicles are caused by passenger vehicles. It is therefore crucial to know how to pass a truck safely.
Remember that semis are larger than passenger automobiles. This is due to their long trailers block their driver's view of the road, so it's crucial to pay attention when you attempt to pass them.
When passing, make sure to keep to the left and allow plenty of space around the vehicle. This will stop you from being rear-ended, which is an everyday occurrence in 18-wheeler collisions.
Be aware that the brakes on a truck take longer to slow down in comparison to the brakes of the brakes of a car. It is also essential to give the truck plenty of time to stop before it reaches your vehicle.
Beware of tire blowouts that could send debris over the road into your lane. Also, a semi-trailer may drift into your lane. This could be dangerous particularly in windy conditions.
Use your turn signals to avoid the truck. This will let the truck driver be aware of you, and will let them know when it's safe to change lanes.
These factors will enable you drive safely when you're on the roads with trucks. If you've been in an accident with a truck, don't hesitate in contacting the experienced 18 wheeler accident lawyers at Cesar Ornelas Law for a free case review. We can assist you in recovering damages for your injuries and property damage.