While all car accidents are inherently dangerous, those involving 18-wheelers (also known as semi-trucks) tend to be particularly terrible as these massive trucks can easily flatten smaller vehicles on the road. Additionally, accidents on American roads involving 18-wheelers are disproportionately high due to the fact that big trucks have larger blind spots, are less maneuverable, and need more time to stop than their small counterparts.
Tips on How to Avoid 18-Wheeler Accidents
Is there anything that the average driver do to help avoid 18-wheeler accidents? Yes, there certainly is. Every driver on the road, regardless of how big or small your vehicle may be, can help avoid 18-wheeler accidents by following the safe driving tips listed below:
- Stay Out of their Blind Spots: 18-wheelers are huge and so are their blind spots (i.e. the areas where the driver has limited or no visibility). Be sure to keep this in mind when driving near them and stay out of their blind spots whenever possible.
- Take it Slow: One easy way to help avoid 18-wheeler accidents is simply to drive slowly. Large semi-trucks can not respond very quickly, so the more time that you give them to react the better. It is especially important to drive slowly around 18-wheelers when driving on a winding road, during inclement weather, or when going downhill.
- Do Not Tailgate: While tailgating is always dangerous, it is particularly dangerous to do so when following an 18-wheeler as these large trucks tend to have bumpers that ride high off the ground and may collide with your windshield if you rear end them. Generally speaking, you should leave at least two to three car lengths between you and the truck in front of you, but keep in mind that this distance needs to be increased if you are traveling at a high speed or if driving conditions are less than ideal.
- Drive Defensively: Driving instructors often tell their students to “drive defensively”, especially when driving near an 18-wheeler. Defensive drivers help avoid accidents by allowing aggressive drivers to pass, using their blinkers, driving ahead, and avoiding sudden lane changes when possible.
- Be Attentive and Use Common Sense: Additionally, many 18-wheeler accidents can be avoided if drivers are attentive and use common sense. Therefore, limit distractions in your vehicle when possible, never text while driving, keep in mind that large trucks do not have the same visibility and maneuverability benefits that you do, and give semi-trucks a wide berth whenever possible.
Have You Been Injured in an 18-Wheeler Accident?
If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18-wheeler accident that was caused (either partially or fully) by another driver’s negligence you may be able to recover compensation for your losses by filing a personal injury lawsuit. Car accident attorney Derek L. Hall has been helping car crash victims negotiate with insurance companies and file personal injury lawsuits in Mississippi for years. He is committed to fighting for his clients and would be happy to assist you too. Contact our Jackson, Mississippi office today at (601) 202-222 to schedule a free initial consultation.
