Sharing the Road with Tractor-Trailers: Staying Safe and What to Do After an Accident
In 2021, there were over 700 confirmed injury-causing crashes involving large trucks in Oklahoma. Our state’s neighbor, Arkansas, has one of the highest densities of truckers, and with the Dallas/Fort Worth area being one of the major transportation hubs in the country, commercial truck traffic across Oklahoma is bustling. The Bureau of Transportation Statistics predicts that some of the heaviest trucking routes will span up, down, and across Oklahoma by 2045.
The Dangers of Large Trucks
One of the most significant reasons that large trucks like 18-wheelers and other commercial trucks are more dangerous is because of their size. When a passenger vehicle is involved in a car accident with a truck, the damage to the smaller vehicle is often severe. The potential for catastrophic damage and injury is much higher when a truck like a tractor-trailer is involved.
Large trucks carrying heavy loads take longer to stop. Plus, when cargo that is not stored and secured properly shifts, it can cause dangerous fluctuations in the weight distribution. These trucks are also prone to failure because of the extensive number of miles they spend in use over a short period of time. Tires that fly off while driving, brake failure, suspension issues, and overheating that leads to fires are all common problems tractor-trailers experience.
In addition to the equipment failure and inherent risks of such large vehicles, trucks also pose a risk due to driver error. Truck drivers are often expected to work long hours with strict time deadlines and mileage requirements. Spending rushed days and nights on the road with little sleep and few breaks is not conducive to safe driving.
Tips for Defensive Driving Around Trucks
Ideally, all truck drivers would stay alert and well-rested, and all trucks would be kept in good working condition. However, even when this ideal scenario exists, accidents can still happen. Below are a few tips to help you drive defensively and stay as safe as possible when sharing the road with 18-wheelers.
Stay Out of Their Blind Spots.
Because of their size, large trucks have areas around them in which the driver cannot see, even with the help of mirrors and windows. Most trucks have a sign on the back that shows where these blind spots are. It’s best to avoid these spots if possible.
Be Gracious with the Drivers.
Tractor-trailers are huge, and many drivers must navigate through tight spaces and busy streets. Give them space when needed, and try to understand how difficult it is to maneuver such a large and cumbersome vehicle.
Predict Speed Variations.
Maintaining a consistent speed is difficult to do in a heavy truck. If you are following behind a truck going up a hill, expect the truck’s speed to significantly decrease until it can reach the top.
What to do After a Truck Accident
Defensive driving will not prevent all truck accidents, and the responsibility does not fall onto your shoulders alone. Truckers must understand that their vehicles are dangerous, and they have a duty to operate and maintain their trucks properly. The priority after a truck accident is your health and safety, so you should always seek necessary medical treatment. If possible, document the accident scene and collect any witness contact information. Notify the police and your insurance company about the accident.
If you have been injured in a truck accident, you deserve justice and an accident attorney who will fight for you. Compensation does more than pay for your property damage and medical expenses; it helps you recover from the physical, emotional, and financial harm that truck accidents cause.
When you’re ready to get on the road to recovery, contact Summit Law Group to schedule a consultation or introductory call with our Oklahoma personal injury lawyer.
