How To Drive Safely Near Semi-trucks

18 wheeler truck accidents are some of the most catastrophic traffic accidents. It is crucial to travel safely and cautiously around these large vehicles. They need much more time to slow down and maneuver around hazardous conditions that increases the risk of accidents.

If you or a loved one suffered an injury in a semi-truck accident that resulted from negligence, you could greatly benefit from seeking legal representation. Isaacs & Isaacs law firm offers a free, no-obligation legal consultation to truck accident victims.

The law firm of Isaacs & Isaacs understands that your life has been severely disrupted and will protect your rights after a truck accident. Set up your free case evaluation now by calling us at 800-444-8888 or filling out our contact form.

1. Have respect for a Trucks Blind Spots

Big Rigs have much larger blind spots than the average car. Take Heed of the following blind spots on a Large truck:

One lane wide on the driver’s side, extending back to about half the length of the trailer
Two lanes wide on the right side, extending back slightly behind the trailer
20 feet in front of the truck
30 feet behind the truck

2.Practice Safe Passing

This should be common practice with ANY vehicle but even more so with a truck, because the large, heavy vehicle cannot stop as quickly as a passenger vehicle. Truck drivers need time to react and adjust their speed and brake accordingly.

When passing a large truck, always approach from the left side, because it is easier for the driver to see you. Keep a consistent speed while passing and always signal clearly and in advance. Before you merge back into the lane in front of the truck, make sure you can see it in your rearview mirror to ensure a safe distance. Make sure not to pass while you are going around a turn or you could possibly move into one of its blind spots.

When a truck passes you, slow down to allow plenty of space in front of you for the driver to maneuver react efficiently and safely.

3.Anticipate Wide Turns

Semi-trucks and larger vehicles have enormous wheelbases that require space and wide areas to turn. If you are near a truck when it is attempting to make a turn, there are a few things to remember:

Remain stopped until the truck finishes its turn
Never block the intersection, make sure to stop behind the white line so it can get past you.

4. Signal Your Intentions

If you intend to turn near a truck or pass in front of one, you should always use your turn signals. Make sure you turn on your signal while you are still visible to the truck driver. Make sure the signal is on at least three seconds before you make the turn or pass the truck.

5.Stay Focused

Distracted drivers put everyone in danger. Avoid using GPS systems, cellphones, and other devices while driving. Do not eat, groom yourself, adjust the radio or perform other actions that will take your eyes and concentration off the road.

By staying focused on your own driving, you will be better able to estimate the speed of trucks around you as they merge, turn, or change lanes, allowing you to respond appropriately.

6. Drive Patiently

Be patient when sharing the road with semi-trucks. Truck drivers have strict operating rules to follow and often use regulating devices, such as a speed limiter which restricts vehicle speed. Taking road rage out on a truck driver by Honking, aggressive driving, or maneuvering through traffic will not encourage a commercial driver to speed up. Instead, it could put you in danger of causing an accident.

7. Increase Following Distance

Always keep a driving distance of at least four seconds between your vehicle and a commercial truck. If you are tailgating an 18 wheeler, the driver cannot see you. If you cannot stop in time or are rear-ended while traveling closely behind a large truck, your car may be pushed underneath the trailer — a type of collision that tends to be catastrophic and cause loss of life.

Keeping a safe distance will also give you more time to react to rollovers, jackknifing, and tire blowouts. If you are in stopped traffic behind a truck, leave ample space between your vehicle and the truck, in case the truck begins to roll backward.

8. Do Not Drive Drowsy

Driving while drowsy and fatigued is a recipe for disaster. If you are tired, pull off the road and rest. When on long trips, allow time for rest breaks or have another driver who can relieve you when you become tired.

9. Wear Your Seat Belt

Not only is wearing your seat belt the law, but it can also keep you safer should you be involved in an accident. Always buckle kids in the back seat, in approved car seats if applicable.

Trucking accidents tend to be more severe than passenger vehicle accidents, and they are often more complex. There may be multiple parties who are liable for the damages you have suffered.

If you have been injured in a collision with a Semi-Truck, please contact the truck accident attorneys at Isaacs & Isaacs. We will investigate your claim and advise you what your legal options may be. If you have a case, we will fight for fair compensation for your pain and suffering.

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