How to Avoid 18 Wheeler Accidents
It can be devastating to your loved ones or yourself when they are involved in a car accident. These accidents are typically the cause of serious injuries and may alter your life forever.
A truck accident lawyer can help you get the compensation you're entitled to for the damages. An experienced attorney can assist you in getting better during this difficult time.
1. Speeding
Driving at a high speed is hazardous for everyone including pedestrians and drivers. This behavior can cause fatal crashes, which can result in death or serious injuries. Speeding up can result in higher insurance costs and points added to the driver's driving record.
When an accident occurs on an 18-wheeler, it can be especially devastating. These massive trucks are very heavy, and can cause significant damage to smaller vehicles. This can be extremely uncomfortable for the occupants of the smaller vehicle that is hit and can even result in life-threatening injuries, depending on the severity of the collision.
Fortunately, there are ways for drivers to reduce their risk of being involved in an 18 wheeler accident. The first thing that must be considered is to avoid speeding at all costs.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that speeding accounted for one-third of all traffic fatalities in 2020. This is a huge problem that must be addressed.
Another mistake drivers make is driving too quickly in the weather. For example, when it rains, or when the road needs to be repaired. This can cause accidents with other vehicles, for example, pedestrians and bike riders.
18 wheeler accident law firm garland are at high risk for speeding. They are less likely to have the experience and understanding of older drivers when it comes down to the laws.
Drivers who are drunk or intoxicated are also more likely to speed over the speed limit, or drive too fast for the conditions. This is due to the fact that they might not be paying attention to the road or might not realize how close they are to other cars and trucks.
In addition driving too fast for conditions can cause drivers to miss a red light or stop sign. It could also increase the risk of a crash. This is especially dangerous for drivers of 18-wheelers, which are bigger than passenger cars.
2. Trucks passing with caution
You may need to drive by a truck on an highway or interstate. In these situations you must always do it with care to avoid causing an accident.
You should also be aware that trucks weigh more than passenger vehicles which means they require longer to slow down and stop. It is important to give them the time to respond to you signals and turn to the right when they pass.
You should always allow at least four seconds between your vehicle and the truck you are passing. This will allow you plenty of time to react to their actions and avoid a collision.
In addition it is not advisable to cut in front of a truck 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 their phone or other device that could cause them to lose control of their vehicle.
Keep a safe distance between you and the truck, particularly when you're driving in the left side of a divided highway or a one-way street. This way, you can stay clear of the truck's blind spots and stay away from the path of fire should they lose control or get jackknifed.
Make sure to inform the driver prior to your intentions and allow them plenty of time respond. This will aid in avoiding an accident, and increase your chances of avoiding serious accident.
When crossing an interstate or two-lane road, never cross a double white solid line or a broken line of yellow. This could cause serious accidents and interfere with other drivers.
A big commercial truck is a frightful sight for motorists However, it doesn't have to be frightening. By following these simple tips, you can avoid 18-wheeler accidents and safeguard your safety.
Contact our team at Cesar Ornelas Law for a free consultation today to determine whether you're eligible for compensation after being injured during a collision involving an 18-wheeler.
3. Try to get out of the way
18 wheelers are large machines that transport freight across the nation. They are an essential element of our economy, and it is vital to be aware of what to look for when driving.
Often the best method to avoid an 18-wheeler accident is to stay out of their way. Don't drive directly in front of a commercial truck, and you should always allow enough room when merging or passing.
Another tip is to avoid blind spots on trucks. These include areas behind the cab as well as both sides of the truck. A properly placed mirror for the cab can make all the difference.
If you do need to merge, make sure you signal clearly so that the trucker is aware of your intentions. The best way to accomplish this is to turn on your hazard lights and turn on your headlights when you get closer to the vehicle ahead of you.
The trucker may not see your vehicle and may not be able to slow down enough time to avoid an accident. The vehicle may also have a high center of gravity. This can cause the driver lose control, and hit you either from the front or back.
Getting out of the way of an 18 wheeler is not only the sexiest thing you can do on the road, but it's also the safest. The biggest risk is that a vehicle speeding away could end up being an incredibly fatal accident. There are other risks that the vehicle could hit you in a turn, or have a hot brake that could cause an accident.
4. In attempting to pass a passenger Vehicle
You've probably encountered this situation as a driver you're stuck in traffic behind a large truck, and you must to pass it so you can get to your destination. If you don't perform the task properly, this could lead to 18-wheeler accidents.
It is important to be aware when passing trucks, especially during winter weather conditions. 75 percent of accidents involving commercial vehicles are caused by passenger cars. It is therefore crucial to know how to pass a truck safely.
First, be aware that semis have a much longer blind zone than passenger vehicles. This is due to their long trailers block their driver's view of the road, which is why it's important to pay close attention when attempting to pass them.
When you pass, try to keep to the left and leave plenty of room around the vehicle. This will ensure that you don't risk being rear-ended by a truck that is typical in 18 wheeler accidents.
Be aware that the brakes of trucks slow more slowly in comparison to the brakes of a car. It is also important to give the truck sufficient time to stop before it reaches your vehicle.
Next, watch out for tire blowouts. These can cause debris to fly across the road and into your lane. Keep in mind that a semi's vehicle could drift into your lane, which can be especially dangerous in stormy weather.
Lastly, be sure to use your turn signals whenever you pass a truck. This will let the truck driver be aware of you, and will let them know when it's safe to change lanes.
All of these aspects will help you drive more safely when you're on the roads with trucks. If you've been involved in an accident involving a truck don't hesitate to contact our experienced 18 wheeler accident lawyers at Cesar Ornelas Law to arrange a free case evaluation. We can assist you in obtaining damages to cover the injuries you sustained and damage to property.