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Sharing The Road With Tractor Trailers
When you share the road with other motorists, there is always the chance for an accident to occur. These can be devastating, especially when there are tractor-trailers involved. The sheer weight and size of these vehicles can increase the chances of property damage, injuries, and deaths.
Sometimes, truck drivers make mistakes. Sometimes, it’s the driver of the smaller vehicle that creates an issue. If you want to reduce your truck accident risk, there are some things truck drivers recommend. Following these recommendations can keep you safer on the road.
Your Car Can Stop Faster
Due to the sheer size and weight of a tractor-trailer, it will take longer for it to stop. In some cases, it can take twice as long for a big truck to come to a stop as it would for your car. That’s very important to remember because you don’t want to assume that the truck right behind you can stop as fast in traffic or for a red light as you can.
Slow down a little sooner, and take a longer time to stop, so the tractor-trailer behind you can do the same. You can also avoid following the car in front of you too closely, so you don’t have to stop so quickly and risk the truck behind you hitting your car from the back.
Can You See the Driver’s Mirrors?
Among the biggest risks are blind spots. If you can’t see the truck’s mirrors, the driver of the tractor-trailer can’t see your car. You’re in their blind spot, and that means they don’t know you’re there. They might stop, turn, change lanes, or do something else that could cause you harm.
To reduce that risk, you should stay out of the blind spots, which are close behind the trailer, and right up near the front of the trailer. Pass the truck quickly to stay out of those spots, and don’t “hang” there while driving.
Trucks Need Plenty of Room to Turn
Another significant risk with tractor-trailers is that they need a lot of room to make their turns. They may be in the middle lane at a traffic light, but if they have their right turn signal on, don’t pull up next to them. They need that extra space to make their turn, and if you’re beside them and they don’t see you, they could accidentally turn right into the side of your car. By giving them space, you’re protecting yourself. Despite your best efforts, though, an accident could still happen, and you may need an attorney to help you.
If you have been injured in an accident with a tractor-trailer, contact Dashner Law Firm. You may be owed compensation for your injuries, and having the right legal advocate on your side can make a difference in your compensation level and peace of mind.
