A car crash involving a large truck can cause serious damage to your vehicle and potentially life-changing injuries. This is why it is so important to take precautions when driving around these vehicles. There are a few strategies you can use to help reduce your risk of an accident with a large truck.
If you or a loved one sustained an injury or property damage from a large truck accident, you should contact our knowledgeable truck accident lawyers in Savannah. We can answer your questions about pursuing compensation for injuries, loss of income, and pain and suffering. We can guide you through each step of the claims process.
Avoid Blind Spots
Large trucks have large blind spots where drivers cannot see other cars. These blind spots are in the front, back and the sides of the truck.
This is why drivers should avoid the following when traveling next to or behind a truck:
- Traveling too close to the front or rear of a truck, particularly if you are traveling at high speed
- Staying in a blind spot longer than necessary
- Merging when in a blind spot
If you find yourself in a truck’s blind spot, which is any time you cannot see the driver in the sideview mirror, do your best to get out of the area as soon as possible. Slow down, speed up or change lanes to get in a position where the driver can see you.
Pass Trucks Safely
Whenever you are trying to pass a truck, keep these things in mind:
- Do not pass unless the driver is visible in the sideview mirror
- Use your turn signal before moving into the lane
- Do not linger in any blind spot for any longer than necessary
- Accelerate gradually
- Do not pull in front of a truck unless you can see it in your rearview mirror
- Avoid passing a truck if you are going downhill
If a truck passes you, slow down to give the truck some space. You do not want to follow too closely behind these vehicles.
Keep Your Distance on Turns
If a truck is turning right next to you, you need to give the vehicle plenty of space. Trucks need a lot more space to make turns and if you are too close, your vehicle could get squeezed between the truck and the curb.
If you approach an intersection next to a truck, make sure to stop before the white line and not after it or in the crosswalk. This gives the truck less space and could result in a collision.
Focus on Your Driving
You should always drive defensively, but this is particularly important if there is a truck near you. Defensive driving means being aware of your surroundings and focusing entirely on driving. This includes:
- Avoiding distractions, like your cellphone or the radio
- Paying attention to the truck’s speed
- Being aware of your distance from a truck
- Never driving after drinking or consuming drugs as this impairs the senses
You also need to avoid aggressive maneuvers around trucks, such as swerving around them or cutting them off. Trucks take longer to slow down and maneuver so you could be increasing your risk of an accident.
Contact an Attorney Right Away
Following the tips above can help to prevent accidents with large trucks. If an accident does occur, it is essential to seek medical attention and contact a lawyer to assist further.
The Savannah personal injury lawyers at Roden Law are prepared to discuss your legal options in a free, no-obligation legal consultation. We take cases on a contingency fee basis so there is no charge for our services unless we obtain compensation.