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Driving alongside large trucks can be intimidating, and for good reason—these massive vehicles play a role in thousands of accidents every year. In fact, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration reports that 5,096 large trucks and buses were involved in fatal crashes for the most recent year data is available. However, many of these incidents are preventable. By practicing a few key safety habits, you can greatly reduce your chances of being involved in a truck-related accident. Here are top 10 tips to help you stay safe on the road and avoid dangerous situations with large trucks.
Truck accidents can happen for a variety of reasons, but understanding the most common causes is essential for preventing them. Many of these accidents are due to factors that can be controlled, like driver behavior, while others are tied to unavoidable circumstances, such as weather conditions or mechanical issues. By recognizing these contributing factors, both truck drivers and motorists can take the necessary precautions to stay safe on the road.
Here are some of the most common reasons for truck accidents:
While some of these causes may be out of a driver’s control, many accidents could be avoided by adopting safer driving habits and remaining vigilant. By staying alert, following traffic laws, and making good decisions on the road, we can reduce the risk of being involved in a truck accident and contribute to safer roads for everyone.
Sharing the road with large trucks requires extra caution due to their size and handling limitations. By following these key safety tips, you can help prevent accidents and ensure a safer driving experience for everyone.
Trucks require a lot more space than regular vehicles to turn, change lanes, and come to a complete stop. Due to their size, tire blowouts can happen unexpectedly, especially when traveling near them. It’s crucial to allow plenty of room around large trucks, especially when following or passing them. Here are some basic tips to help avoid accidents with large trucks:
Large trucks have much bigger blind spots compared to passenger vehicles. These blind spots, sometimes called “no-zones,” are areas where the truck driver cannot see other vehicles, increasing the risk of an accident. Stay out of the following zones to reduce your chances of being involved in a truck crash:
If you can’t see the truck driver in their side mirror, they likely can’t see you.
Trucks cannot stop as quickly as passenger vehicles, so if you need to pass, do so swiftly but safely. Here are a few tips for passing trucks safely:
Trucks make wider turns than cars, which increases the chance of your vehicle being crushed if it’s too close to a turning truck. Always be cautious when a truck is making a turn, especially at intersections, and avoid positioning yourself where a truck could potentially cut into your lane.
Staying focused on the road is one of the most effective ways to avoid an accident with a truck. Distractions come in many forms, both inside and outside of your vehicle. Here are some common distractions to avoid:
By keeping your focus on driving, you can significantly reduce the risk of a collision.
Inclement weather is often a factor in truck accidents, especially when the roads are slick or visibility is reduced. Truck drivers can lose control of their vehicles during severe weather conditions. If possible, avoid driving near trucks in poor weather. If you must drive during bad weather, increase the distance between your vehicle and the truck to give yourself more time to react.
Clear communication is key when sharing the road with large trucks. Using your turn signals well in advance allows truck drivers to anticipate your movements and adjust their driving. By signaling clearly and early, you give both yourself and the truck driver more time to make safe decisions.
If you need to pull over on the highway, be extremely cautious. Keep your time on the side of the road as brief as possible and use caution when exiting your vehicle. Put out cones or flares if available, activate your hazard lights, and always check for trucks before re-entering the roadway. Clearly signal and wait until the road is clear before merging back into traffic.
Merging around a truck can be one of the most dangerous maneuvers for drivers. Truck drivers may not be able to see vehicles merging directly in front of them, which can lead to rear-end collisions. Always allow extra space and merge safely, giving the truck ample room to adjust.
Road rage can lead to dangerous situations, especially when dealing with a vehicle as large as a truck. If you feel yourself becoming agitated, take a break from driving or stay calm. Avoid engaging with truck drivers and remember that aggressive actions can have severe consequences when a 60,000-pound vehicle is involved.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident, the experienced legal team at Michael Gopin is here to help. We understand the complexities of truck accident cases and will fight to get you the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us guide you through the process with care and expertise.
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Michael J. Gopin has practiced law in El Paso since 1987. Even after more than 30 years, he still remembers his first jury case. It was two weeks after receiving his license, when he represented a person whose life had been forever changed after being blinded in a work-related incident...
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