A truck accident can lead to extremely serious injuries, even when the truck is not moving at high speed. If you have been in an accident with a semi-truck or 18 wheeler, there are steps you can take to ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve.
Learn about semi truck stopping distance, and it helps you understand how it is more dangerous to be behind or beside a semi. Always make sure you are clear of the truck when passing it. If you cannot pass the truck safely, wait until you can do so.
How to avoid a truck accident
1. Stay alert around large vehicles
When around large vehicles such as trucks or buses, you should always be alert. Stay aware of your surroundings, and make sure to pay attention to the road, especially around corners and when changing lanes. Also, you should leave extra room between your vehicle and large vehicles on the road. It could prevent a collision if a large vehicle were to stop suddenly.
2. Do not pass a large vehicle on the right
Never try to pass a large vehicle on the right, especially if you are in a car. It is extremely dangerous and can lead to serious accidents. If you travel behind a truck or bus, make sure to leave extra room between your car and theirs because their stopping distance will increase.
3. Do not tailgate a large vehicle
Tailgating any car or truck can lead to serious accidents, but it is especially dangerous when you tailgate a large truck. If you tailgate a semi-truck and they have to brake quickly, you could be in very serious trouble. Be patient and leave plenty of room between your cars so that you are not tempted to tailgate.
4. Make sure you know how much space large vehicles need to stop
A semi-truck takes longer than other vehicles to come to a complete stop. When passing, make sure you know their stopping distance to clear your car of the truck before they begin braking. If you are unsure of their stopping distance, slow down and wait until you can pass them safely.
5. Always make sure large vehicles have enough room to enter or exit the highway
When passing a large vehicle, always make sure they do not need to merge onto the highway behind you. If a semi needs to enter the highway close behind you, find a safe place to pull off and allow them to merge in ahead of you.
6. Avoid blind spots around large vehicles
Large vehicles such as semi-trucks have very large blind spots on the side and rear of their vehicle where other cars can get lost from their view. If you pass or next to a large vehicle, avoid going into their blind spot. It could reduce the chances of you being hit or run over by them if they were to change lanes quickly due to not seeing your car in their rearview mirror.
In conclusion, following these steps can reduce the risk of a serious car accident occurring because of a semi-truck.
