How to Avoid 18 Wheeler Accidents
If you or someone you love is involved in a collision with a commercial vehicle, it could be a devastating accident. These collisions are often caused by severe injuries, and they could change your life forever.
18 wheeler accident attorney oxnard can assist you in obtaining the compensation you deserve for the damage. A seasoned lawyer can help you focus on healing during this time of stress.
1. Speeding
Speeding up can be dangerous for everyone including pedestrians and drivers. This behavior can cause fatal crashes, leading to death or serious injuries. Speeding can also lead to increased insurance costs and points on a driver's report.
A collision with an 18-wheeler can be devastating. These massive trucks are very heavy and can cause severe damage to smaller vehicles. This can be extremely painful for the passengers of the small vehicle that is damaged and could cause life-threatening injuries depending on the nature of the crash.
There are fortunately, a few ways for drivers to lessen the chance of being involved in an 18 wheeler accident. The first thing to do is to stay clear of speeding.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration states that speeding was responsible for one-third of all traffic deaths in 2020. This is a serious issue that needs to be addressed.
Another common mistake that drivers make is driving too fast for conditions like when it's raining or when the road is being repaired. This can result in accidents with other vehicles, such as pedestrians and motorcyclists.
Speeding is a major risk for drivers who are younger. This is due to the fact that they are more likely to lack the experience and knowledge that older drivers are equipped with when it comes to the rules of the road.
Drivers who are sleepy or intoxicated may also be more likely to go over the speed limit or drive at a speed that is too fast for conditions. This is because they might not be paying attention to the road, or might not realize how close they are to other cars and trucks.
A driver could also miss the stop sign or red light if they drive too fast. This can increase the chance of a car accident. This can be especially dangerous if the driver is in an 18 wheeler, because they are a lot bigger than regular passenger cars.
2. Beware of passing trucks.
You may have to travel by a truck while on an highway or interstate. In these instances it's essential to be cautious to avoid a collision.
It is also important to be aware that trucks weigh more than passenger vehicles This means that they take longer to slow down and stop. You should give them enough time to respond to your signals and turn to the right when they pass.
When passing a truck, you should leave at least four seconds between you and their vehicle. This will allow plenty of time to react to the truck's actions and avoid a collision.
It is also not advisable to cut in front of a truck when changing lanes, or leaving the highway. This could be dangerous since a truck driver's blind spot could make it difficult for them to see you. They may also be distracted by a phone or other gadget that can cause them to lose control of their vehicle.
Maintain a safe distance between you and the truck, especially when you're driving in the left side of a divided highway or a street that is one-way. You can avoid the blind spots of the truck and stay out of the area of fire should they lose control or get jackknifed.
Make sure you notify the driver prior to your intentions and allow them ample time to respond. This will assist you in avoiding collisions, and improve your chances of avoiding serious accident.
When crossing a two-lane road or interstate don't cross a double white solid line or a broken line of yellow. This could cause interference with other drivers on the road and could cause a serious crash.
It's not necessary to be terrified of a big commercial truck. You can ensure your safety and avoid accidents with 18-wheelers by following these easy tips.
If you've been injured in an accident that involved an 18-wheeler, call our team at Cesar Ornelas Law today for an initial consultation for free and find out if we could help you pursue compensation.
3. Try to get out of the way
18 wheelers, also known as tractor-trailers, are huge machines that transport freight across the country. It is important to be aware of what to look for while driving.
Being in the back of the line is often the best way to prevent an 18-wheeler accident. Never merge or move past a commercial vehicle directly in front.
Avoiding blind spots is an additional important tip. These include the areas behind the cab and both sides of the truck. The cab is often the most difficult part of the truck to view and a well-placed mirror can make a huge difference.
If you need to merge, make sure you communicate your intentions clearly so that the trucker is aware their intentions. The best way to accomplish this is to turn on your hazard lights and turn on your headlights when you approach the vehicle in front of you.
The trucker might not be able to see the vehicle and will not be able to slow down in enough time to avoid an accident. The vehicle may also have a high center of gravity, which could cause the driver to lose control and crash into you from the rear or the front.
Moving out of the way of an 18 wheeler isn't just the most attractive thing you can do on the road, it's also the most secure. The biggest risk is that a speeding truck can easily become an unintentional wreck. Other risks include a vehicle that is able to hit you on the bend or have a hot break that could lead to an accident.
4. Trying to pass a passenger vehicle
As an driver, you've probably faced this unpleasant scene on the highway when you're stuck behind a huge truck and you have to pass it to get there. Unfortunately, doing this could result in 18 wheeler accidents if not done properly.
It is important to be aware when passing trucks, especially 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 is crucial to know what to do and what not to do when trying to pass trucks.
First, be aware that semis have a much longer blind spot than passenger vehicles. This is due to their long trailers block their driver's view of the road, which is why it is important to pay at all times when passing them.
When you pass, try to remain in the left lane and leave plenty of space around the vehicle. This will help you avoid being hit by a truck which is a common occurrence in 18 wheeler accidents.
Also, be aware that the brakes on trucks require a longer time to stop than a passenger car's. It's also crucial to give the truck a good distance to stop when it's approaching your vehicle.
Beware of tire blowouts, which can cause debris across the road into your lane. Additionally, keep in mind that a semi's trailer could drift into your lane, which can be extremely dangerous in windy weather.
Use your turn signals to pass a truck. This will enable truck drivers to see and recognize when it's safe to change lanes.
The combination of these elements to consider will help you drive safely when sharing the roads with trucks. If you've been in an accident with a truck don't hesitate to contact our experienced attorneys for 18 wheeler accidents at Cesar Ornelas Law for an initial case review. We can help you claim damages for your injuries and property damage.