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The transportation of goods across the country is essential to our economy. Yet, with all those trucks on the roads, it can make for a dangerous commute. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) there were almost 300,000 big rigs on the nation’s roadways in 2016.
Accidents with 18-wheelers can cause serious injuries and damages. It is best to do whatever you can to avoid getting into an accident with a big rig. There are tips for sharing the road with 18-wheelers that you can use to help you stay out of an accident.
Big rigs are large and have many blind spots. Therefore, they may change lanes suddenly without noticing a vehicle in the way. You can not be sure that the truck driver will see your car when you are behind or next to the large vehicle. Therefore, try to leave plenty of room around the truck to allow for their unknown actions. Do not ride directly behind the truck because the driver will not see you in that position. Remember that large trucks need extra space to make turns, so allow them space when needed.
Trucks that carry hazardous materials are among the most dangerous. These include substances that could be harmful or flammable in an accident. Drivers should avoid being near these vehicles. Houston has a designated Haz-Mat route for trucks that carry these materials.
Trucks that carry hazardous materials must use 610 Loop. This effectively routes potentially dangerous trucks around the city rather than directly through it. If you can not avoid the 610 loop altogether you can at least know there may be more trucks on the road so you can be more careful around them.
Trucks may make sudden lane changes and may not see cars directly next to them. When you are ready to pass a truck, do so properly and know the truck’s position to avoid blind spots. Make no sudden moves around the truck and try not to drive next to a truck for any great distance. You will also want to be more cautious and practice defensive driving when trucks are nearby. If you see a truck speeding, stay away.
When driving in front of a truck, be careful not to make a sudden stop. Large 18-wheelers can weigh as much as 80,000 pounds, making it difficult to stop quickly. Do not cut-off a truck because it may not properly react to the maneuver and an accident could result.
If you were injured in an accident with an 18-wheeler, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and damages.
Contact the experienced truck accident legal team at 281-893-0760!
Related Articles:
Tanker Truck Rollover Prevention Tactics and Strategies
How To Avoid Accidents With 18-Wheelers
How to Avoid Blind Spot Accidents
18-Wheeler Crash Causes Hazmat Spill, Road Closures
Resources
https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/safety/data-and-statistics/commercial-motor-vehicle-facts
