How to Avoid 18 Wheeler Accidents
If you or a loved one is involved in a collision with a commercial vehicle, it could be a devastating incident. These accidents are usually caused by severe injuries, and they can change your life forever.
A lawyer who has experience in truck accidents will help you receive the compensation you're entitled to for the damages. This can be a very stressful period, but a knowledgeable attorney will help keep you focused on healing.
1. Speeding
Driving at high speeds can be dangerous for everyone including pedestrians and drivers. This kind of behavior can result in fatal crashes, which can result in death or serious injuries. Speeding up can result in higher insurance costs and points added to the driving record of a driver.
A collision caused by an 18-wheeler is devastating. These massive trucks are extremely heavy and can cause significant damage to smaller vehicles. This can be very painful for the occupants of the vehicle struck and may result in life-threatening injuries, depending on the severity of the crash.
There are a few things drivers can do to lessen the chance of being involved in an accident with a vehicle that is 18-wheeled. The first step is to avoid all forms of speeding.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that speeding is responsible for one-third of all traffic deaths in 2020. This is a major issue that must be addressed.
Another mistake drivers make is driving quickly in the weather. For instance, if it rains or when the road requires repaired. This could cause accidents with other vehicles such as pedestrians and motorcycle riders.
Speeding can be a particularly risky thing for drivers who are younger. This is due to the fact that they are more likely to not have the experience and expertise that older drivers have in regards to the laws of the road.
Drivers who are tired or drunk are more likely to overtake the speed limit or drive at a speed that is too fast for conditions. This is due to the fact that they may not be paying attention to the road or may not be aware of how close they are to other vehicles and trucks.
Drivers can also fail to see an intersection's stop sign or a red light if they drive too fast. It could also increase the likelihood of a rollover. This can be especially dangerous if the driver is in an 18-wheeler, since they are larger than standard passenger cars.
2. Beware of passing trucks.
If you're driving on a major highway or interstate, there could be occasions when you have to drive by a truck. In these instances, it's important to drive cautiously to avoid a collision.
It is also important to be aware that trucks weigh more than passenger vehicles, which means that they take longer to slow down and stop. You should allow them enough time to respond to you signals and move to the right when they pass.
You should always allow at least four seconds between your vehicle and the truck that you are passing. This ensures that you'll have plenty of time to react to their actions and prevent a collision.
You should also never cut in front a truck when changing lanes, or exiting the highway. This can be dangerous, since a truck's blind spot may make it difficult for the driver to see you. They can also be distracted by a cell phone or other electronic device that can cause them to lose control of their vehicle.
Maintain a safe distance between you and the truck, especially when driving in a left lane of a divided highway or one-way street. This will allow you to stay away from the truck's blind spots and keep yourself away from the path of fire in the event they lose control or get jackknifed.
Make sure to inform the driver prior to indicating 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.
If you are crossing a two-lane highway or interstate don't cross a double white solid line or broken line of yellow. This will interfere with the other drivers on the road and could result in a serious crash.
A huge commercial truck can be a scary for many motorists, but it doesn't have to be frightening. You can safeguard yourself and avoid accidents with 18-wheelers by following these simple tips.
If you've been injured in an accident caused by an 18-wheeler, call our team at Cesar Ornelas Law today for no-cost consultation to find out if we can help you seek compensation.
3. In a bid to get out of the Way
18 wheelers, also referred as tractor-trailers, are huge equipment used to transport goods across the country. It is crucial to know the things to look out for when driving.
Often the best way to avoid an 18 wheeler accident is to avoid their path. You should never drive directly in the path of a commercial vehicle and give yourself extra space when merging or passing.
Another important point is to stay clear of blind spots on trucks. These include behind the cab as well as both sides of the truck. A properly-placed cab mirror could make all the difference.
If you need to merge, indicate your intentions clearly so that the trucker is aware of your intentions. 18 wheeler accident claim livermore can be accomplished by activating your hazard lights and switching on your headlights as you get close to the vehicle ahead of you.
The trucker might not see your vehicle and therefore not be able to slow it down in enough time to avoid an accident. The vehicle could also have an elevated center of gravity, which could cause the driver to lose control, and possibly hit you from the rear or the front.
Making sure you stay out of the way of an 18-wheeler is not only the sexiest thing you can do on the road, it's also the safest. The biggest danger is that a car speeding away could quickly turn into an accident that could be fatal. Other dangers include a vehicle which could crash into you at the bend or have a hot break which could lead to an accident.
4. Try to pass a driver vehicle
As an driver, you've probably encountered this gruelling scene on the road that is, you're stranded behind a large truck and must pass it in order to get to your destination. Unfortunately, attempting to do this could result in 18 wheeler accidents if not done in a safe manner.
The reality is that passing trucks can be dangerous for both drivers particularly in winter conditions when driving more carefully is vital to ensure safety on the road. 75 percent of all accidents involving commercial vehicles are caused by passenger vehicles. It's therefore important to be aware of how to pass by trucks safely.
First, be aware that semis have a wider blind spot than passenger vehicles. This is due to their long trailers block the driver's view. Therefore, it's important to be aware when you attempt to pass them.
If you are passing, remain in the left lane. Make sure you leave plenty of space around the vehicle. This will prevent getting rear-ended by the truck which is a common occurrence in 18 wheeler accidents.
Be aware that the brakes of a truck slow more slowly in comparison to the brakes of a car. It is also important to give the truck enough space to stop before it comes close to your vehicle.
Beware of tire blowouts which could cause debris across the road and into your lane. Also, a semi-trailer may slide into your lane. This can be dangerous especially in windy conditions.
Use your turn signals to cross paths with a truck. This will allow the truck driver to see you, and it will let them know when it's safe to change lanes.
Take all these aspects in consideration will help you drive safely when sharing the roads with trucks. If you've been in an accident involving a truck don't hesitate in contacting the experienced 18 wheeler accident lawyers at Cesar Ornelas Law for a no-cost case review. We can assist you in recovering damages for your injuries and property damage.