Truck Safety – Avoiding a Truck Accident
Large trucks maintain a prominent presence on our nation’s roadways. Due to their excessive size, poor maneuverability, and heavy loads carried, trucks pose a serious danger to others on the road. In the event of a truck accident, the damage caused to other vehicles is usually greater than that caused by a collision with another automobile, and injuries sustained are often very serious, sometimes even life threatening.
When you are driving on the highway near a large truck, it is important to take precautions in order to help reduce the risk of a serious truck accident.
By following these safety suggestions, you can help make the road safer for everyone:
- Avoid driving in a truck’s blind spot — All trucks have blind spots both behind and on the sides of the truck where the driver cannot see other vehicles on the road. If you are driving in one of these blind spots, you are increasing the risk of an accident. If you cannot see the truck’s side view mirrors, then the driver most likely cannot see you either. Never drive alongside a truck for an extended period of time. Either pass quickly or slow down and drive at a safe following distance. Always pass a truck on the left side where the blind spot is not as large.
- Never cut off a truck — Trucks take longer to slow down and stop than cars do. Cutting in front of a truck is an easy way to cause a serious accident.
- Do not tailgate — When following a truck it is important to leave extra distance between you and the truck. Leaving 20-25 car lengths between you and the truck will enable you to see past the truck so that you can anticipate upcoming road conditions. It will also give you enough time to avoid the truck in the event of an accident.
- Don’t get squeezed — Trucks often make very wide turns. When turning right, a truck may swing into the left lane in order to successfully complete the turn. If you are alongside the truck, you may get “squeezed” into the curb or guardrail, causing serious injuries.
- Exercise caution when passing — Remember that when passing a truck, you will be in his blind spot for awhile. Expect the truck driver to act as if he doesn’t know you are there. Once you have passed the truck, wait to change lanes until you can see its headlights in your rearview mirror.
- Watch brake lights — Pay attention to brake lights and turn signals of trucks. This will help you better anticipate the truck’s actions so that you can avoid a needless accident.
If you have been injured in a truck accident, the lawyers at Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. can help you receive proper compensation for your injuries. Please contact our truck accident attorneys today to schedule your free consultation. We have offices in Maryland, Washington, DC, and Virginia.