It is a no-brainer that truck accidents can cause rather devastating and lasting injuries.
According to a report issued by the United States Department of Transportation, close to 3,964 people died and over 95,000 were injured in crashes that involved commercial and other large trucks in the year 2013. However, like most other accidents, truck accidents can be prevented. Listed below are a few tips to avoid truck accidents.
Driving Tips to Help Prevent Truck Accidents
Once you have managed to pass the driving training program and your company gives you the keys to drive your own rig, you are bound to be faced with a set of challenges. This is why we have put together a few pointers that will help you start out on your own as a solo driver.
- Move Slowly: You are now a professional truck driver. But, this doesn’t mean you can start racing on the roads. The very first rule is to take your time and to do whatever you are doing not just methodically, but also safely. Whether you are pulling in or out of a yard, coming or going from a quick truck stop, or backing your truck into a loading truck – move slowly.
- Be Thorough and Double Check: Ensure that you have covered all your bases and there is absolutely nothing that you are forgetting while backing out or executing a wide turn – even on a highway. Even experienced truck drivers often fail to check blind spots and conduct a complete circle check. Keep your eyes glued to your entire vehicle while reversing on a highway to be sure there are no obstacles.
- Do not Trust Your Spotter Blindly: If you have a spotter, remember that 9 out of 10 times, he is watching only one part of your truck. It is likely that he is not looking out for overhead clearance or watching your front right corner. Though his intentions may be good, it is best that you do not trust him blindly. Get out of your truck every now and then to have a look for yourself, especially if you are blindsiding in, when there is the risk of a truck accident.
Driving Tips for Other Vehicles
Most commercial trucks have larger blind spots than a traditional passenger vehicle. Though it is not possible to totally avoid blind spots, you must make an effort to limit your time in a blind spot, when the risks of a truck accident are high.
Most experienced truck drivers are very cautious when turning. But, if you are driving in a blind spot for a very long time, the driver may not know you are there. If you think you are in a blind spot, look for the truck’s mirrors. If you cannot see the person behind the wheel, it is likely that he cannot see you too.
Trucks also need a lot more time to slow down due to their size. If you pull in right in front of a truck on a highway and brake, the driver may not be able to bring his vehicle to a halt to avoid a rear end collision. When you change lanes on a highway, be sure to communicate with the truck driver sharing the road of your intentions, and also check your blind spot before you merge.
It takes just a little common sense to avoid careless accidents. But, accidents do happen. If you or somebody you know has been in a truck accident and sustained grievous injuries, be sure to contact a reliable and solid truck accident attorney at Fetterman & Associates to discuss your case. Call us at 561-845-2510 today for a free consultation.
Additional Reading:
Truck Accidents: Who is Liable?
Accident with a Truck: How Much Can You Sue?