How to Avoid 18 Wheeler Accidents
If you or someone you love is involved in an accident with a commercial vehicle, it can be a devastating accident. These collisions can cause severe injuries and alter your life forever.
A lawyer who handles truck accidents can help you obtain the compensation you're entitled to for the damage. A knowledgeable lawyer can help you focus on getting better during this difficult time.
1. Speeding
All pedestrians and drivers are at risk when they drive too quickly. This type of behavior can cause fatal crashes, which can result in death or serious injury. Speeding up can result in higher insurance costs and points added to a driver's driving record.
When an accident occurs on an 18-wheeler it can be devastating. These large trucks are heavy, and can cause significant damage to smaller vehicles. The occupants of a small vehicle can suffer severe injuries or even die, depending on the severity of the crash.
There are a few things that drivers can do to lower the chance of being involved in an accident with an 18-wheeler. The first thing to be considered is to avoid speeding in any way possible.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that speeding caused one-third of all traffic fatalities in 2020. This is a major problem that must be addressed.
Another common mistake drivers make is driving too fast for the conditions, such as when it's raining or when the road is being repaired. This can cause accidents with other vehicles such as pedestrians and motorcyclists.
Speeding is particularly dangerous for drivers who are younger. 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 may also be more likely to overtake the speed limit or drive at a speed that is too quickly for the conditions. This is because they might not be paying attention to the road, or might not be aware of how close they are to other vehicles and trucks.
In addition driving too fast for conditions can cause drivers to be unable to spot a red light, or stop signal. It can also increase the chances of a rollover. This can be especially dangerous when the driver is driving an 18-wheeler, as they are a lot bigger than regular passenger cars.
2. Beware of passing trucks.
If you're driving along a highway or an interstate, there may be instances where you need to move around a truck. In these instances you must take care to avoid the risk of 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 your signals and turn to the right when passing.
You should always leave at least four seconds between your vehicle and the truck you are traveling by. This will allow you plenty of time to react to their actions and prevent a collision.
In addition, you should never cut into the truck's path to change lanes or leave the highway. This is dangerous because the blind spot of a truck driver could make it difficult for them to see you. They could also be distracted by their phone or other device, which could lead them to lose control of their vehicle.
Keep a safe distance between you and the truck, particularly when driving in a left lane of a divided highway or a one-way street. You can avoid the blind areas of the truck and stay out of the range of fire in the event that they lose control or strike jackknife.
Be sure to notify them in advance of your intentions and give them ample time to respond. This will prevent a collision and increase your chances of avoiding a serious accident.
When crossing the two-lane interstate or a road do not cross a double solid white line or a broken line of yellow. 18 wheeler accident case fayetteville could cause interference with other drivers on the road, and could lead to an accident of serious severity.
It's not necessary to be terrified of a huge commercial truck. You can safeguard yourself and avoid accidents with 18-wheelers by following these simple guidelines.
If you have been injured in an accident with an 18-wheeler, contact our team at Cesar Ornelas Law today for no-cost consultation and find out if we could assist you in pursuing compensation.
3. In a bid to get out of the Way
18 wheelers are large machines that transport freight across the nation. It is crucial to know what to look for when driving.
The best way to avoid an 18 wheeler accident is to avoid their path. It is not recommended to merge or drive by a commercial vehicle directly in front of.
Another important tip is to stay clear of blind spots on trucks. These areas include the interior of the cab, behind it and on both sides of the vehicle. A properly placed mirror for the cab can make all the difference.
If you must merge, indicate your intentions clearly so that the trucker is aware their intentions. This can be done by activating the hazard light and switching on your headlights when you are approaching the vehicle in front of you.
The trucker might not be able to see the vehicle and will not be able slow down in enough time to avoid an accident. The vehicle may also have an elevated center of gravity, which could cause the driver to lose control and strike you from behind or the front.
Getting out of the way of an 18-wheeler isn't just the most attractive thing you can do on the road, it's also the safest. The most serious risk is that a speeding truck could turn into a fatal accident. The other risk is that the vehicle could crash into you on a curve or have a hot brake which could cause an accident.
4. In attempting to pass a passenger vehicle
You've probably been through this scene as a motorist: you're stuck in traffic behind a huge truck, and you need to get it out of the way so that you can reach your destination. Unfortunately, trying to do this can result in 18 wheeler accidents if not done in a safe manner.
The reality is that passing trucks can be hazardous for both parties involved particularly in winter conditions when being more cautious is vital to ensure safety on the road. In fact 75 percent of accidents involving commercial vehicles are caused by drivers of passenger vehicles, which is why it is crucial to know what to do and what not to do when trying to pass a truck.
First, remember that semis have a much longer blind spot than passenger vehicles. It's because their long trailers block their driver's view. Therefore, it's important to be cautious when passing them.
When you pass, try to keep to the left and leave plenty of space around the vehicle. This will help you avoid getting rear-ended by the truck, which is common in 18 wheeler accidents.
Be aware that the brakes of a truck require more time to slow down than those of a car. It is also crucial to give the truck plenty of time to stop prior to it coming towards your vehicle.
Beware of tire blowouts which could cause debris across the road and into your lane. Also, be aware that a semi's trailer could drift into your lane, which can be particularly dangerous in stormy weather.
Use your turn signals when passing the truck. This will enable the truck driver to be aware of you, and will allow them to be aware of when it is safe to change lanes.
All these factors will help you drive safely when you're on the road with trucks. Contact the experienced 18-wheeler collision lawyers at Cesar Ornelas law for a free consultation if you've been involved in an accident involving trucks. We can assist you in obtaining damages for your injuries and property damage.