How to Avoid a Truck Accident

Published: Nov 15, 2017 in Truck Accident

Due to their large size and heavy weight, trucks can cause catastrophic injuries and even death when they are involved in accidents with other vehicles. To help you reduce your risk of getting into a truck accident and seriously injuring yourself, The Cates Law Firm, LLC has created this list of tips.

In the event that you do sustain an injury or lose a loved one in a truck accident that was caused by someone else’s negligence, you should consult our experienced Belleville truck accident lawyers immediately at (618) 767-6293.

Stay Out of Blind Spots

Trucks feature large blind spots called “no zones.” These blind spots are located directly in front of trucks, behind them, and beside their right door. Since truck drivers cannot typically see motorists in blind spots, you should make every effort to stay out of these areas.

Refrain From Changing Lanes in Front of a Truck

Abruptly switching lanes in front of a truck or failing to give them enough room when passing may cause a truck driver to quickly slam on their brakes. Due to the fact that trucks need more time to slow down and stop than regular vehicles, a sudden stop has the potential to cause a serious accident involving multiple vehicles.

Avoid Tailgating

Be sure to avoid traveling too closely to a truck in any one area for any period of time, and always assume that you are not visible to them. Keeping your distance from trucks on the road is crucial because of the increased time it takes for them to accelerate, slow down, and stop.

Drive Cautiously in Inclement Weather

Trucks often cause water, snow, mud, and debris to fly out to their sides and behind them as they travel. In order to reduce the risk of debris damage and visibility impairment, you should allow for extra space between you and trucks while driving in inclement weather conditions.

Stay Alert

You should stay alert whenever you are behind the wheel. If you are drowsy or distracted, you are more likely to get into an accident with a truck than if you are awake and aware of your surroundings.

Anticipate Turns

Trucks typically use multiple lanes to execute turns. Therefore, if a truck is turning in one direction, you should avoid passing it on the same side. Additionally, you should refrain from following trucks too closely as they turn because of their rear blind spots.

Do Not Drive Aggressively

The size and weight of the cargo that trucks usually carry forces them to adhere to certain speed regulations. While you may be tempted to keep up with the flow of traffic, going over the speed limit and driving aggressively in order to pass a truck may lead to an accident.

Contact the Truck Accident Lawyers at The Cates Law Firm, LLC

By adjusting your driving to accommodate trucks and their limitations, you’ll reduce your risk of getting into a truck accident. In the event that you do get hurt or lose a loved one in a truck accident, reach out to the Belleville truck accident lawyers at The Cates Law Firm, LLC. We can help you determine who was at fault and may be able to recover compensation on your behalf.