How to Prevent Commercial Truck Accidents (and What to Do if One Occurs)

As drivers, we all share the road with a variety of vehicles, including commercial trucks. These trucks play a crucial role in our economy, transporting goods and products across the country. However, driving next to a commercial truck can be intimidating, and accidents involving these large vehicles can be catastrophic.

In this article, we’ll discuss common causes of truck accidents, preventative measures, and what to do if you’re involved in an accident with a commercial truck.

Differences Between Driving a Truck and a Car

Driving a truck is a vastly different experience from driving a car. One of the most noticeable differences is the size and weight of the vehicle. Commercial trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, while the average passenger car weighs around 4,000 pounds. This weight difference can affect the acceleration, braking, and handling of the vehicle. Trucks require more time and distance to slow down or stop, and their acceleration may be slower than that of a car.

Another key difference between driving a truck and a car is visibility. Trucks have much larger blind spots than cars, especially on the right-hand side of the vehicle. This means that truck drivers have to be extra careful when changing lanes, merging onto a highway, or making turns. Truck drivers also have to constantly monitor their surroundings, using mirrors and cameras to check for other vehicles, pedestrians, and obstacles.

Preventative Measures for Car Drivers

To increase awareness of the challenges of driving a truck, car drivers can familiarize themselves with the differences between the two vehicles and adhere to safe driving practices when sharing the road. To prevent accidents involving commercial trucks, the following tips can be implemented:

Leave Enough Space

Trucks need more time and space to slow down or stop, so always leave enough room between your car and the truck in front of you. Keep in mind that the stopping distance for a loaded commercial truck is much greater than that of a passenger car. When you are in front of a truck on an interstate, highway, or another road with high speed, be careful of stopping too quickly because the truck will be unable to stop in the same amount of time.

Avoid Blind Spots

Trucks have larger blind spots than cars, so avoid driving in these areas. If you can’t see the driver’s reflection in their side mirrors, they can’t see you. Be especially careful when passing a truck that you don’t stay in their blind spot for too long. This is especially true when passing on a crowded interstate where you are aware that the truck is likely to move lanes. And make sure you have plenty of room between your vehicle and the truck when merging back into their lane.

Use Turn Signals

Always use your turn signals when changing lanes or making turns. Of course, using your turn signals is always important, but it’s especially true when sharing the road with a large truck. This gives the truck driver plenty of warning and allows them to adjust their speed and position accordingly.

Be Patient

Trucks may take longer to accelerate, so don’t try to pass them in tight spaces or merge in front of them too quickly. Keep in mind that commercial trucks are limited to certain speeds and are required by law to follow strict driving regulations. Be patient and give them the space they need to operate safely.

Be careful when moving lanes away from a truck that your vision into the lane you will be occupying may be obscured from your vision. You do not want to make a quick and somewhat blind move into an adjacent lane only to learn that traffic in that lane had slowed or stopped but you were not aware because you could not see well around the large truck and trailer.

Be Aware of the Truck’s Movements

If you notice a truck swerving or changing lanes erratically, it may indicate a problem with the driver or the truck. Stay away from the truck and contact the authorities, if necessary.

The Reality of Truck Accidents

Unfortunately, even with awareness and focused driving, accidents can still occur when sharing the road with commercial trucks. Truck accidents can be incredibly dangerous, resulting in serious injuries or death. While accidents involving commercial trucks are not always the fault of the truck driver, there are certain common causes of truck accidents that car drivers should be aware of.

One common cause of truck accidents is driver fatigue. Truck drivers are often required to drive long hours, and fatigue can impair their ability to operate the vehicle safely. Another common cause of truck accidents is distracted driving. This can include anything from texting or talking on the phone while driving, to eating or drinking behind the wheel.

Other common causes of truck accidents include speeding, improper maintenance, and improper loading of the truck. When a truck is not properly maintained, it can lead to mechanical failures that can cause an accident. Similarly, if a truck is not loaded properly, it can affect the vehicle’s balance and stability on the road.

What to Do if You’re Involved in an Accident with a Commercial Truck

If you’re involved in an accident with a commercial truck, the first step is to seek medical help. It is recommended to get checked by a medical professional even if you do not think you have been injured, as shock and adrenaline may mask symptoms of an injury that may only become apparent later.

Once you’ve received medical help, the next step is to contact a reputable truck accident attorney such as Beers & Gordon. An attorney can aid in safeguarding your legal rights and increase your compensation for damages including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. There is also evidence to be requested, such as dash cams, lane departure information, and other information that may be needed to eventually prove your claim. With their knowledge and experience, a truck accident attorney can help guide you through the legal process and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses.

Preventing Truck Accidents and Protecting Your Legal Rights

Sharing the road with commercial trucks requires extra caution and awareness from all drivers. By following the preventative measures outlined in this article and seeking legal help if necessary, car drivers can help prevent accidents and protect their legal rights in the event of an accident with a commercial truck.

If you’re involved in a truck accident, remember to seek medical help first and then contact a reputable truck accident attorney such as Beers & Gordon. An attorney can assist in safeguarding your legal rights and guaranteeing fair compensation for any injuries or damages incurred. A truck accident attorney’s expertise and experience can offer the necessary legal representation to help you navigate the intricate world of truck accident law and ensure you receive the appropriate compensation. Remember, safe driving practices benefit everyone on the road, and by working together, we can all help prevent accidents and keep our roads safe.