How to Avoid 18 Wheeler Accidents
When you or a loved one is involved in a collision with a commercial truck, it could be a devastating experience. These collisions are often the cause of severe injuries, and can change your life forever.
An attorney for accidents on the road can help you obtain the compensation you're entitled to for the damages. It can be a difficult moment, but a skilled lawyer will help you focus on healing.
1. Speeding
All pedestrians and drivers are at risk when driving too fast. This type of behavior can cause fatal crashes, leading to death or serious injuries. Speeding up can result in higher insurance costs and points added to the driver's driving record.
If an accident happens with an 18 wheeler, it can be especially devastating. These massive trucks are very heavy and can cause severe damage to smaller vehicles. This can be extremely painful for the passengers of the smaller vehicle that is hit and can even result in life-threatening injuries, depending on the nature of the crash.
There are a few things that drivers can do to lessen their chance of being involved in an accident with an 18-wheeler. The first thing to do is to avoid any kind of speeding.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, speeding was responsible for one-third of all traffic deaths in 2020. This is a massive issue that needs to be addressed.
Another common mistake that drivers make is to drive too fast for conditions like when it's raining, or when the road is being repaired. This can cause accidents with other vehicles for example, pedestrians and bike riders.
Speeding is a particular risk for drivers who are young. They are less likely to have the experience and knowledge of older drivers when it comes to the law.
Drowsy and intoxicated drivers are more likely to drive beyond the speed limit or go too fast for the conditions. This is because they might not be paying at all to the road ahead or may not be aware of how close they are to other vehicles and trucks.
In addition, driving too fast for conditions could cause a driver miss a red light or stop sign. This can also increase the chance of a driver rolling over. This is especially true when the driver is driving an 18 wheeler, because they are a lot larger than regular passenger vehicles.
2. Moving trucks through with caution
You may need to move a truck across an highway or interstate. In these instances it is crucial to be cautious in order to avoid collision.
Trucks are heavier than passenger cars, which means they will take longer to stop and slow down. It is important to give them the time to respond to your signals and then move to the right when passing.
You should always allow at least four seconds between your vehicle and the truck that you are traveling by. This will allow you plenty of time to react to their actions and prevent collisions.
In addition don't cut between a truck and a vehicle to change lanes or exit the highway. This is risky because the truck driver's blind spot can make it difficult for them to see you. They could also be distracted by their mobile or other device, which could result in them losing vehicle control.
Maintain a safe distance you and the truck, especially when driving in the left section of a divided road or a one-way street. You can avoid the blind areas of the truck and stay clear of its danger zone if they lose control or jackknife.
Make sure you notify the driver prior to your intentions and allow the driver plenty of time to respond. This will prevent a collision and increase the chance of avoiding a serious accident.
When passing on an interstate or two-lane road be sure to avoid crossing a double white solid line or broken line of yellow. This could cause a problem for other drivers on the road and may result in a serious crash.
It's not necessary to be terrified of a large commercial truck. 18 wheeler accident case elizabeth can help yourself and avoid accidents with 18-wheelers by following these easy tips.
If you have been injured in an accident with an 18-wheeler, call our team at Cesar Ornelas Law today for no-cost consultation and find out if we could help you obtain compensation.
3. Try to move out of the way
18 wheelers are large machines that transport goods across the country. They are a crucial component of our economy and it is crucial to know what to watch out for on the road.
Being in the back of the line is usually the best method to prevent an 18-wheeler accident. You should never merge with or drive by a commercial vehicle directly in front of.
Avoiding blind spots is a second important tip. These areas include the inside of the cab, behind the cab and along both sides of the vehicle. A properly-placed mirror in the cab can make all the difference.
If you have to merge, you should signal clearly so that the trucker is aware of your intentions. This can be done by activating your hazard lamp and switching on your headlights when you get close to the vehicle ahead of you.
There is a risk that the trucker will not be able to see your vehicle and could not be capable of slowing down in time to avoid a crash. The vehicle may also have a high center of gravity, which could cause the driver to lose control and hit you from behind or the front.
It's not only safer to get out of the way of an 18-wheeler, but it's also the attractive. The biggest risk is that a truck running away could end up being an unfathomable accident. Other risks are that the vehicle could crash into you on a curve or have a hot brake which could cause an accident.
4. You are trying to pass a Passenger Vehicle
As drivers, you've probably encountered this gruelling scene on the highway: you're stuck behind a huge truck and must pass it to get there. Unfortunately, trying to do so can lead to 18 wheeler accidents if not done properly.
The truth is that passing trucks can be hazardous for both drivers particularly in winter conditions, when being more cautious is crucial to stay safe on the road. 75 percent of commercial vehicle accidents result from passenger vehicles. Therefore, it is crucial to be aware of how to pass a truck safely.
Keep in mind that semis are larger than passenger automobiles. This is due to their long trailers are blocking the driver's view. It's important to be careful when passing them.
If you are passing, remain in the left in the left. Be sure to leave plenty of room around the vehicle. This will keep you from being rear-ended, which is an everyday occurrence in 18-wheeler collisions.
Also, be aware that the brakes on trucks require a longer time to slow down than a passenger car's. It's also important to allow the truck a good distance to stop when it's coming towards your vehicle.
Be aware of tire blowouts which could cause debris across the road and into your lane. Also, be aware that a semi's trailer can get caught in your lane, which can be particularly dangerous in windy weather.
Also, make sure you use your turn signals when you pass trucks. This will enable truck drivers to see and know when it is safe to change lanes.
All of these factors will allow you drive more safely while sharing the roads with trucks. Contact the experienced 18-wheeler crash attorneys at Cesar Ornelas law to schedule an initial consultation for free if you've been involved in an accident involving a truck. We can assist you in recovering damages for your injuries as well as property damage.