How to Avoid 18 Wheeler Accidents
It can be devastating for you or someone you love when they are involved in a truck crash. These accidents can result in severe injuries and alter your life for the better.
A lawyer who has experience in truck accidents will help you receive the compensation you're due for your losses. A seasoned lawyer can assist you in recovering from this stressful time.
1. Speeding
Driving at a high speed is dangerous for everyone, including drivers and pedestrians. This can lead to fatal crashes, leading to death or serious injury. Speeding can increase insurance costs and points added to the driving record of a driver.
An accident caused by an 18-wheeler is devastating. These massive trucks are very heavy and can cause substantial damage to smaller vehicles. This can be very uncomfortable for the occupants of the small vehicle that is damaged and could result in life-threatening injuries, depending on the severity of the crash.
Fortunately, there are things that drivers can do to lessen the chance of being involved in an 18 wheeler accident. The first thing to do is to avoid all forms of speeding.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration that speeding was the cause of one-third of the traffic deaths that occurred in 2020. This is a major problem that must be addressed.
Another mistake drivers make is driving too fast in the weather. For instance, when it rains or when the road has to be repaired. This could result in accidents with other vehicles such as pedestrians and motorcycle riders.
Younger drivers are at vulnerable risk of speeding. This is due to the fact that they are more likely to lack the experience and knowledge older drivers have when it comes to the laws of the road.
Drivers who are drunk or drunk are more likely to overtake the speed limit or drive at a speed that is too fast for the conditions. This is due to the fact that they might not be paying attention to the road, or might not realize how close they are to other vehicles and trucks.
A driver can also miss an intersection's stop sign or a red light by driving too fast. This can increase the risk of a motorist falling over. This is especially dangerous for drivers of 18-wheelers, which are larger than passenger cars.
2. Trucks passing with caution
If you're driving on a highway or an interstate, there may be occasions when you have to pass a truck. In these situations it's crucial to drive carefully so as to avoid collision.
You should also be aware that trucks weigh more than passenger vehicles This means that they require longer to stop and slow down. You should give them enough time to react to your signals and then move to the right when passing.
It is recommended to leave at least four second between your vehicle and the truck you are passing. This will allow plenty of time to react to the truck's actions and avoid a collision.
Additionally it is not advisable to cut in front of a truck to change lanes or exit the highway. This is a risk, as the truck's blind spot could make it difficult for the driver to see you. They can also be distracted by a phone or other device, which can cause them to lose control of their vehicle.
Keep a safe distance from the truck, particularly when you are driving in the left lane on the highway that is divided. You can avoid the blind spots of the truck and stay out of the danger zone if they lose control or jackknife.
Be sure to notify them ahead of time about your intentions and allow the driver plenty of time to respond. This will aid in avoiding an accident, and increase your chances of avoiding a serious accident.
If you're on a 2-lane highway or an interstate, you should never cross a double solid white line or broken yellow lines when passing. This could lead to serious accidents and may cause interference with other drivers.
It's not necessary to be scared of a large commercial truck. 18 wheeler accident case seattle can ensure your safety and avoid accidents with 18-wheelers by following these easy tips.
Contact our team at Cesar Ornelas Law for a free consultation today to determine if you can receive compensation for injuries sustained in a collision with an 18-wheeler.
3. Try to move away from the way
18 wheelers, also referred as tractor-trailers, are massive machines that are used to transport cargo across the country. It is important to be aware of what to look for while driving.
The most effective way to avoid an 18-wheeler accident is to be aware of them and stay out of their way. Don't drive directly in the front of a commercial truck, and you should always give yourself extra space when merging or passing.
Another important tip is to stay clear of blind spots in trucks. These include the cab, behind the cab and along both sides of the vehicle. The cab is typically the most difficult part of the truck to view and a mirror that is well-placed can make a big difference.
If you have to merge, be sure to signal clearly so the trucker can anticipate your intentions. This can be accomplished by activating your hazard lights and switching on your headlights when you get close to the vehicle ahead of you.
There is a possibility that the trucker won't be able to see your vehicle, and may not be at a safe speed enough to avoid an accident. The vehicle may also have an elevated center of gravity, which can cause the driver to lose control, and possibly hit you from the rear or the front.
It's not only safer to stay out of the way of an 18-wheeler; it is also the most attractive. The most significant danger is that a rogue truck can easily become an unintentional wreck. Other risks are that the vehicle may hit you in a turn, or have a hot brake that could result in an accident.
4. You are trying to pass a Passenger Vehicle
As drivers, you've probably experienced this frustrating scenario on the road and are stuck behind a large truck and you have to pass it in order to get to your destination. However, doing this can result in accidents with 18 wheelers if done properly.
It's important to be cautious when passing trucks, particularly during winter weather conditions. In fact, 75 percent of all accidents involving commercial vehicles are caused by drivers of passenger vehicles, which is why it's crucial to be aware of what not to do when trying to pass trucks.
It is important to note that semis have a wider blind spot than passenger vehicles. This is due to their long trailers are blocking their driver's view. Therefore, it's important to be cautious when you attempt to pass them.
When passing, make sure to remain in the left lane and allow plenty of space around the vehicle. This will help you avoid getting rear-ended. This is often the case in 18-wheeler accidents.
Be aware that the brakes on a truck take a longer time to slow down than a passenger car's. It's also important to allow the truck enough distance to stop when it's approaching your vehicle.
Beware of tire blowouts, which can cause debris across the road and into your lane. Be aware that a semi's vehicle could slide into your lane, which is especially risky in stormy weather.
Use your turn signals to avoid the truck. This will enable the truck driver to see and be aware of when it is safe to change lanes.
All of these aspects will help you drive more safely when sharing the road with trucks. Contact the experienced 18-wheeler collision attorneys at Cesar Ornelas law for a free consultation if you've been involved in an accident that involved a truck. We can assist you in obtaining damages to compensate for your injuries and damages to property.