Sharing the road with 18-wheelers is like sleeping with a giant. Without meaning to hurt you, they have the power to crush you in a moment. You may not like the fact that they are bigger and more powerful, but your road safety depends on your ability to find a way to accommodate these trucks while driving.
A semi-truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds and has an engine that is six times larger than the one in your car. When you imagine what is required to stop a heavy vehicle traveling at high speeds, you may have an increased willingness to give the driver of a big truck every chance to avoid a car accident. Use these safety tips to ensure that you and anyone in your car remains safe while driving near trucks.
Keep Your Mind on Driving
Concentrating on driving without distraction is one of the best things you can do to stay safe. Some of the most common distractions include using your cell phone; “rubbernecking,” or turning your head to watch or see something on the road does not concern you (like an accident); and reaching for an object not close to you. The moments you spend not concentrating on the road, no matter how fleeting, can lead to serious truck accidents if you are not careful.
Tips for Safe Driving
Driver Solutions suggests some tips that can keep you out of trouble when you share the road with 18-wheelers:
- Stay Out of the Blind Spots – Make sure that you can see the driver’s face in the truck’s side view mirror.
- Keep Your Distance – Following a truck too closely gives you a view of its rear end but nothing else.
- Pass with Caution – Passing a truck is complete when you can see the entire front of the vehicle in your rear view mirror.
- Signal Your Intentions – Trucks cannot stop as quickly as cars, and drivers need to know your plans so that they can avoid a collision.
- Mind Your Brights – Lower your bright lights even if there is no oncoming traffic. The side mirrors on a truck can reflect light into the cabin and blind the driver.
Take Action to Protect Yourself
Accidents are sometimes unavoidable and often result in injuries that require legal representation by an Arlington accident attorney. Attorney David Kohm works on your behalf to obtain fair and just compensation for your losses and medical expenses. You deserve compensation for the consequences of truck accidents that can change your life forever.
Call the Law Offices of David Kohm at 817-204-0900 to get the representation that you deserve. You won’t pay legal fees unless you collect on your claim.
