A crash with a tractor-trailer is likely to end in injuries – especially for drivers and passengers in smaller vehicles. In fact, passenger vehicle occupants accounted for 68 percent of truck accident deaths in 2014, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
Fortunately, there are steps that drivers can take to avoid collisions with commercial trucks:
- Learn how trucks operate;
- Stay away from trucks in bad weather;
- And do not stop on the highway.
Unfortunately, all it takes is one negligent truck driver to cause a tragedy. If you sustained injuries in a crash with a trucker in Georgia, contact the Crosson Law Group, LLC.
Ken Crosson is a truck accident lawyer in Marietta who can evaluate your wreck, gather evidence, structure your claim and handle settlement negotiations. Call 678-909-0770 to schedule a free initial consultation.
Until then, read on to learn three strategies for preventing 18-wheeler accidents:
- Learn How Trucks Operate
Operating a large truck is not the same as driving a passenger vehicle. A truck can be 30 times heavier, which means it requires a longer stopping distance. If a trucker is tailgating you, change lanes and let the vehicle pass.
Trucks also have high centers of gravity. They are prone to rollovers on off- and on-ramps. Keep your distance from tractor-trailers in these situations.
Due to their length, trucks also require more room to make sharp turns. The driver might have to enter the adjacent lane, so drive defensively if you approach a truck that is turning.
Trucks also have large blind spots. Do not drive in a trucker’s blind spot for an excessive amount of time.
- Stay away from Trucks in Bad Weather
According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, fog, rain and snow can reduce a trucker’s visibility. A responsible trucker will double his or her following distance in these conditions, but some drivers are complacent. If a truck driver does not maintain a safe following distance behind you, change lanes and let it pass.
- Do Not Stop on the Highway
You should never pull over on a busy road or highway. If your vehicle breaks down, make sure it is completely off the road. Otherwise, a distracted trucker could smash into your car. You should also stay a safe distance from your vehicle.
Sometimes vehicles on the side of highways appear to be in motion. For this reason, your emergency kit should contain warning triangles or flares to notify oncoming traffic.
If you sustained injuries in a crash that was not your fault, contact the Crosson Law Group, LLC. Ken Crosson is a truck accident attorney in Georgia who can talk to witnesses, gather evidence and help you pursue the maximum compensation.
You should not have to pay for lost income, health-care bills and other damages that another driver caused. Call 678-909-0770 to schedule a free initial consultation and discuss your legal options.