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How To Avoid Getting Into A Truck Accident

Truck Accident Lawyer

Accidents involving commercial trucks are more likely to result in catastrophic injuries, like amputations, brain injuries and burns. That’s why you should be especially careful when driving near these large trucks. Here are a few ways to avoid getting into a truck accident.

Keep Out of the Truck Driver’s Blind Spot

If you drive by a truck driver’s blind spot, he or she can’t see you, so an accident is more likely to occur. If you can’t see the truck driver’s face through the truck’s side mirror, that means he or she can’t see you either. If you want to pass a truck, do it in the left lane while the truck is in the right.

Avoid Distractions

Driving for long periods of time can definitely be boring. However, that doesn’t mean that you should give into distractions, like texting on your smartphone or changing the radio station. When you’re driving around commercial trucks, you have to be especially aware of your surroundings at all times. If you’re distracted, you won’t be able to do that and risk an accident.

Leave Space Between Your Vehicle and a Commercial Truck

If a commercial truck is ever behind your vehicle, you’ll want to stay several feet ahead of it at all times. Big trucks can’t stop as easily as passenger vehicles. They need more time to make a full stop. 

Allow a commercial truck to pass easily

If you anticipate that a commercial truck is trying to pass your vehicle, you should let it. Even if you believe that you have the right of way and the truck shouldn’t be passing you, let it slide. If you don’t allow a truck to pass, it can result in an accident.

Use Your Turn Signals

While it’s always wise to use the proper turn signals, it’s especially important with commercial trucks. If you wish to pass a truck on a highway, for example, you should always use a signal to let the driver know what you’re planning to do.

Don’t Speed

Even if you’re in a hurry to get somewhere, you should never drive above the speed limit, especially if there are large trucks around you. Speeding can lower your reaction time, so you won’t be able to react to things as quickly on the road, such as a commercial truck pulling out suddenly in front of you.

What to Do If You Were Injured in a Truck Accident

Unfortunately, it’s still possible to get in a truck accident even if you take all the proper precautions. If you sustain injuries in a truck accident, seek immediate medical care first. These accidents often result in serious injuries, so it’s critical to look out for your health and well-being.

If the truck driver was to blame for the accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages and other losses. Consult a truck accident lawyer, like one from MartinWren, P.C., as soon as possible.