5 Laws That Anyone Working In 18 Wheeler Attorney Should Know
How to Avoid 18 Wheeler Accidents
If you or someone you love is involved in an accident with a commercial truck it could be a devastating accident. These accidents are usually the cause of serious injuries, and can change your life for good.
A lawyer for truck accidents can help you receive the compensation you're entitled to for the damages. A knowledgeable lawyer can help you focus on getting better during this difficult time.
1. Speeding
Driving at a high speed is dangerous for everyone, including drivers and pedestrians. This kind of behavior can cause accidents that cause fatalities like wrongful deaths and serious injury. Speeding can lead to increased insurance costs and points added to a driver's driving record.
When an accident occurs on an 18-wheeler, it can be especially devastating. These massive trucks are very heavy and can cause severe damage to smaller vehicles. The occupants of a small vehicle could suffer severe injuries and even die depending on the severity of the crash.
Fortunately, there are things drivers can do to lower the risk of being involved in an 18-wheeler accident. The first step is to avoid any kind of speeding.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration according to the agency, speeding was responsible for one-third of the traffic deaths that occurred in 2020. This is a serious issue that needs to be addressed.
Another error motorists make is driving too fast in the weather. For instance, when it rains or when the road requires repaired. This can cause accidents with other vehicles such as motorcycle riders and pedestrians.
Speeding is a particular risk for drivers who are younger. This is because they are more likely to lack the knowledge and experience older drivers have regarding the laws of the road.
18 wheeler accident attorney mount pleasant who are sleepy or drunk may be more likely to overtake the speed limit or drive at a speed that is too quickly for the conditions. They might not be paying enough attention to the road, or they might not be aware that they are driving in the vicinity of other vehicles and trucks.
In addition, driving too fast for conditions could cause a driver to fail to see a red light or stop signal. This could increase the chance of a driver rolling over. This is particularly dangerous for drivers of 18-wheelers, which are bigger than passenger cars.
2. Beware of passing trucks.
If you're driving along a highway or an interstate, there may be occasions when you have to get a truck to pass. In these instances, you should always do so with caution to avoid creating an accident.
They weigh more than passenger cars, therefore they take longer to stop and slow down. It is important to give them the time to respond to you signals and move to the right when they pass.
If you are passing a truck, you should be sure to leave at minimum four seconds between yourself and their vehicle. This will allow plenty of time for you to react to the actions of the truck and avoid collision.
Additionally it is not advisable to cut between a truck and a vehicle to change lanes or exit the highway. This is a risk, as the blind spot of a truck could make it difficult for the driver to see you. They may also be distracted by their phone or other device that can cause them to lose control of their vehicle.
Maintain a safe distance between you and the truck, particularly if you're driving in the left lane of a divided highway or a street that is one-way. This way, you'll stay clear of the truck's blind spots and keep yourself away from the path of fire in case they lose control or jackknife.
Make sure to inform the driver prior to your intentions and give them ample time to respond. This will help you avoid an accident and increase the chance of avoiding a serious accident.
If you are crossing an interstate or two-lane road don't cross a double white solid line or broken line of yellow. This could cause serious accidents and cause problems for other drivers.
A large commercial truck can be a scary sight to many motorists, but it doesn't have to be scary. You can safeguard yourself and avoid accidents with 18-wheelers by following these simple guidelines.
Contact us at Cesar Ornelas Law for a free consultation today to find out if you can receive compensation when you've been injured during a collision involving an 18-wheeler.
3. In a bid to get out of the Way
18 wheelers are big machines that transport goods across the nation. It is important to know what to look out for when driving.
Staying out of the way is usually the best method to prevent an 18-wheeler accident. Don't drive directly in the front of a commercial truck and you should allow extra room when merging or passing.
Avoiding blind spots is an additional important tip. These areas include behind the cab, and both sides of the truck. A properly placed mirror for the cab can make all the difference.
If you are required to merge, signal your intentions clearly so that the trucker is aware of their intentions. The best way to accomplish this is to activate your hazard lights and switch on your headlights as you move towards the vehicle in front of you.
There is a risk that the trucker will not see your vehicle, and may not be capable of slowing down in time to avoid an accident. The vehicle may also have an elevated center of gravity, which could cause the driver to lose control, and possibly hit you from the rear or front.
It's not only safest to get out of the path of an 18-wheeler, but it's also the sexiest. The biggest risk is that a truck running away could end up being an unfathomable accident. There are other risks that the vehicle might hit you in a turn, or have a hot brake that could lead to an accident.
4. Trying to Pass a Passenger Vehicle
You've probably experienced this frustrating situation as a driver you're stuck in traffic behind a huge truck, and you must to get past it so that you can reach your destination. Unfortunately, trying to do so can lead to accidents with 18 wheelers if done in a safe manner.
The truth is that passing trucks can be hazardous for both parties involved particularly in winter weather conditions when driving more carefully is essential to remain safe on the road. 75 percent of commercial vehicle accidents are caused by passenger cars. It is therefore crucial to be aware of the best ways to pass the truck in a safe manner.
First, remember that semis have a much larger blind spot than passenger vehicles. This is due to their lengthy trailers block the driver's view. It's important to be aware when you attempt to pass them.
When you pass, make sure to stay in the left direction. Make sure you leave plenty of space around the vehicle. This will help you avoid getting rear-ended. This is an everyday occurrence in 18-wheeler accidents.
Be aware that the brakes on trucks require more time to slow down compared to those of a car. It's also important to give the truck enough space to stop when it's coming towards your vehicle.
Next, watch out for tire blowouts, which could cause debris to fly across the road and into your lane. Be aware that a semi's trailer can be able to drift into your lane which is especially risky in a storm.
Finally, ensure that you use your turn signals when you pass a truck. This will allow truck drivers to see and be aware of when it is safe to change lanes.
All of these aspects will help you to drive with safety when you're on the road with trucks. Contact the experienced 18-wheeler accident lawyers at Cesar Ornelas law for no-cost consultation if you've been involved in an accident involving a truck. We can assist you in obtaining damages for your injuries and property damage.