How can motorists stay safe around trucks?

How can motorists stay safe around trucks? There were 117,300 injury-causing accidents involving large truck accidents and 5,788 fatal truck accidents in 2021, according to the National Safety Council’s Injury Facts data. Accidents involving trucks often result in more serious injuries than crashes involving smaller vehicles. Commercial tractor-trailers or semis, are significantly larger and heavier than passenger cars. A fully loaded truck can weigh 20 to 30 times more than a typical car. This mass generates more kinetic energy during a collision, leading to greater force upon impact. This also contributes to their higher inertia, which means they require much more distance and time to stop compared to smaller vehicles, leading to longer stopping distances and making it difficult for trucks to avoid collisions, especially in emergency situations or when road conditions are poor. By design, tractor-trailers pose crash risks. For one, they often have air brakes, which can require additional time to engage and slow down the vehicle effectively. Additionally, the weight distribution of the cargo can affect the truck's braking performance, making it harder to control in certain situations. Some trucks, especially those carrying high loads or trailers, have a higher center of gravity, making them more prone to tipping over or losing control during sudden maneuvers or turns. They also have larger blind spots, or "no-zones," where the driver's view is obstructed. This can lead to accidents if smaller vehicles linger in these blind spots, as the truck driver might not be aware of their presence. So, if possible, motorists should take precautions when sharing the road with commercial trucks to ensure their own safety.

Staying Safe Around Trucks

Staying safe around trucks on the road is crucial, as trucks are much larger and heavier than most other vehicles. Here are some important tips for motorists to stay safe when driving near trucks.

• Stay visible: Large trucks have blind spots, also known as "no-zones," on all sides. If you can't see the truck's mirrors, the truck driver can't see you. Avoid lingering in these blind spots to reduce the risk of accidents.
• Keep a safe following distance: Give trucks plenty of space. Trucks take longer to stop due to their size and weight, so maintain a larger following distance compared to when following smaller vehicles.
• Avoid sudden lane changes: When passing a truck, do so quickly and avoid lingering in their blind spots. Signal well in advance, accelerate, and move past the truck. Avoid cutting in front of a truck too closely, as they require more time to slow down.
• Pass safely: When passing a truck, maintain a steady speed and avoid slowing down suddenly. Ensure you can see the entire front of the truck in your rearview mirror before moving back into its lane.
• Give room for turns: Trucks need extra space to make turns due to their longer length. If you see a truck with its turn signal on, give it ample space and avoid trying to squeeze by on the same side.
• Be cautious in inclement weather: Trucks can have difficulty stopping on wet or icy roads due to their weight. Give them even more space in adverse weather conditions.
• Use proper merging techniques: When merging onto highways or changing lanes near a truck, make sure you have enough space and time to merge safely. Don't force the truck driver to make sudden moves to accommodate your merge.
• Be patient: Trucks might take longer to accelerate and climb hills. Be patient and give them the space they need to maneuver safely.
• Use your turn signals: Indicate your intentions with your turn signals well in advance. This helps truck drivers anticipate your moves and adjust their driving accordingly.
• Don’t cut off trucks: Cutting off a truck can lead to dangerous situations. Remember that trucks need more time to slow down, so avoid abruptly pulling in front of them.
• Observe warning signs: Pay attention to warning signs on trucks, such as "Wide Load" or "Oversize Load." These trucks might require even more space and attention when driving near them.
• Stay alert: Avoid distractions while driving near trucks. Stay focused on the road and your surroundings to react promptly to any unexpected situations.

Remember that truck drivers have a challenging job, and both motorists and truck drivers must share the road responsibly to ensure everyone's safety. Always exercise caution, patience, and consideration when driving around trucks.

Call a Texas truck accident attorney if you’ve suffered injuries in a truck crash

Texas has the highest number of truck accident fatalities in the country, by far. If you or a loved one suffered injuries in an accident with a large truck, you need a personal injury law firm with experience handling truck accident claims to seek the maximum compensation on your behalf. Wyatt Law Firm’s team of truck accident attorneys has over three decades of experience helping clients like you. Contact us today at 210-871-0628 or submit a confidential fact sheet to schedule a free consultation.