5 Tips that can help you avoid truck accidents

Truck accidents are typically catastrophic incidents on the road. When a huge truck collides with any commercial or passenger vehicle, it can get crumpled like an accordion. The sheer size and weight of commercial vehicles lead to such serious fatalities.

Even minor crashes with trucks can cause significant casualties and property damage. Even though truck drivers are well-trained, accidents still happen, usually as a result of other drivers’ actions or unavoidable circumstances. By following safe driving habits and keeping alert, you can significantly reduce your chances of being involved in a truck-related mishap.

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If you have been hurt in a truck accident despite your best efforts to avoid it, speaking with truck accident lawyers from Khan Law Firm or other such great firms would be wise. They can help you secure a fair compensation and recover quickly.

Here are five important tips for avoiding truck accidents.

1. Stay out of blind spots

Trucks have large blind spots, often referred to as “no-zones”, where the truck driver’s view is blocked. These blind spots are located on the sides, directly behind, and in front of the truck. A good rule of thumb is, if you can’t see the truck driver in their side mirror, they probably can’t see you.

To avoid accidents, steer clear of these no-zones. When passing a truck, do so quickly and safely, and always maintain a safe distance. Lingering in a blind spot for too long increases your chances of a collision, as the truck driver may not realise you’re there.

2. Maintain a safe following distance

Driving too closely behind a truck can be extremely dangerous. Trucks are not only harder to stop due to their size, but they also block your view of the road ahead. This can prevent you from reacting to sudden changes in traffic, such as a vehicle slowing down or an obstacle on the road.

Maintain at least a four- to five-second distance behind trucks to allow ample time to stop or maneuver in case of an emergency. This buffer zone also reduces the risk of rear-end collisions, which can be particularly dangerous when involving trucks.

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3. Pass trucks safely

Passing a truck requires extra caution. Always pass on the left side, as the right side has larger blind spots. Make sure you signal your intentions early and pass the truck swiftly without lingering in the truck’s blind spots.

After passing, ensure there is enough space between you and the truck before merging back into the lane. Cutting off a truck can lead to catastrophic accidents, as trucks need more time and distance to slow down compared to smaller vehicles.

4. Be cautious in bad weather

Bad weather conditions such as rain, fog, or snow make driving more hazardous for everyone on the road, especially for large trucks. Trucks are more prone to sliding or losing control on slippery surfaces due to their weight and size. As per the Forbes Advisor report, 13% of truck accidents are caused due to bad weather conditions.

In such conditions, it’s vital to give trucks extra room and reduce your speed. Stay alert for trucks braking suddenly or swerving to avoid obstacles. Being cautious during bad weather can prevent you from getting into a dangerous situation that could lead to an accident.

5. Avoid distracted driving

Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of accidents involving all types of vehicles, including trucks. Texting, adjusting the radio, or even eating can divert your attention away from the road for just a few seconds, but that’s enough time for an accident to occur. It is worth pointing out that nearly 3,308 people were killed in motor vehicle crashes involving distracted drivers in 2022, according to an NHTSA report.

When driving near trucks, it’s even more important to stay focussed and aware of your surroundings. Keeping your attention on the road allows you to anticipate the truck driver’s actions, such as lane changes or braking, and react accordingly. By staying alert, you can prevent dangerous situations from escalating into accidents.

Conclusion

Truck accidents can have life-altering consequences, but many are preventable with the right driving habits. By staying out of blind spots, maintaining a safe following distance, passing trucks properly, being cautious in bad weather, and avoiding distractions, you can significantly reduce your risk of being involved in a truck accident. However, even with these precautions, accidents can still happen. If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, it’s crucial to seek legal help.

The truck accident lawyers are experienced in handling these complex cases and can help you navigate the legal process to receive the compensation you deserve. Safe driving is everyone’s responsibility, but when accidents occur, having the right legal support can make all the difference.

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