Large trucks pose a distinct hazard to other vehicles on the road due to their size, weight, and poor maneuverability. That’s why it is important to know how to drive safely near large Semi-Trucks.
Our St. Louis truck accident lawyers discuss steps you can take to reduce your chances of a truck accident.
Staying Safe Near Large Trucks
The main thing to keep in mind when driving near large trucks is that most of the time, the semi-truck driver cannot see your vehicle.
Trucks have large blind spots directly in front, directly behind, and on either side of them. As such, your vehicle is virtually invisible when you are in these areas.
Therefore, avoiding these areas as much as possible can help reduce your chances of a truck accident. If you must pass a truck, get through these blind spots as quickly and safely as possible.
Taking The Following Measures Can Help Decrease Your Likelihood Of A Truck Accident:
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Never Cut Off A Truck – Trucks require large distances to come to a complete stop, and when vehicles cut in front of them, the truck driver may not be able to stop in time to prevent an accident.
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Use Your Turn Signal – When changing lanes in front of a truck, wait until the truck is visible in your rearview mirror. Then, use your turn signal to let the truck driver know you plan to merge in front of them.
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Never Drive Distracted – Even though trucks’ movement may seem slow and predictable, this does not mean you can let your guard down around them. In fact, you should be even more observant, as truck accidents often result in catastrophic or fatal accidents. As such, never drive distracted on the road, particularly when near large trucks.
Legal Considerations and Regulations
Navigating the aftermath of a truck accident involves understanding a complex web of legal considerations and regulations. Liability in truck accidents can extend beyond just the driver to include trucking companies, manufacturers, and even maintenance contractors. To navigate these legal complexities, it’s crucial to be aware of the applicable laws and regulations.
Trucking companies and drivers must adhere to federal and state regulations governing hours of service, vehicle maintenance, weight limits, and driver qualifications. Violations of these regulations can significantly impact liability in the event of an accident.
Additionally, insurance requirements for commercial trucking operations are often more stringent than those for passenger vehicles. Trucking companies are typically required to carry higher insurance limits to cover potential damages resulting from accidents.
Understanding these legal considerations is essential for both victims of truck accidents and those within the trucking industry to ensure accountability and fair compensation in the event of a collision.
Tips for Truck Drivers
As a truck driver, safety on the road is paramount not only for your own well-being but also for the safety of other motorists. Here are some tips to enhance safety from a truck driver’s perspective:
- Maintain Proper Distance: Always maintain a safe following distance from other vehicles, especially in adverse weather conditions or heavy traffic. This allows for adequate braking distance and reduces the risk of rear-end collisions.
- Check Blind Spots: Be vigilant in checking your blind spots before changing lanes or making turns. Large trucks have significant blind spots, particularly on the right side and directly behind the vehicle. Utilize mirrors and additional assistance tools like blind spot detection systems when available.
- Communicate Effectively: Use turn signals, horn, and lights to communicate your intentions to other drivers on the road. Clear communication helps prevent misunderstandings and reduces the likelihood of accidents.
- Stay Alert and Avoid Fatigue: Driver fatigue is a leading cause of truck accidents. Take regular breaks, stay hydrated, and get adequate rest to maintain alertness behind the wheel.
- Perform Pre-Trip Inspections: Conduct thorough pre-trip inspections of your vehicle to ensure it is in optimal condition for the journey. Check brakes, tires, lights, and other critical components to mitigate the risk of mechanical failures.
By prioritizing safety and implementing these tips, truck drivers can contribute to safer roads for everyone.
Injured In A St. Louis Truck Accident? We’re Here to Help
Even if you follow all of these safety precautions, truck accidents may still happen. If you have been injured in a St. Louis truck accident, our personal injury attorneys are well-equipped to protect your rights.
We’re unafraid to take on large trucking companies on your behalf while you focus on recovering from your injuries. We hope our how to drive safely near large semi-trucks guide will stop that from ever happening. But, if it does please contact Cantor Injury Law today.