Safety Tips for Sharing the Road with Large Trucks

No one wants to tangle with a tractor trailer or other large truck when driving down I-75 or I-85 in Georgia. These mammoths of the highway can weigh close to 80,000 pounds with powerful engines that keep these trucks moving 70 MPH. While the drivers of these big rigs have a duty to drive safely, they are less likely to be seriously or fatally injured if they are in a wreck, compared to occupants in other vehicles. Here are some safety tips to avoid becoming a victim of a truck injury accident.

Avoid Blind Spots

Semi trucks have large blind spots surrounding their vehicle where they cannot see other vehicles. If you stay in these areas, the truck driver may not see your vehicle. These include directly in front and directly behind the truck, and on either side of the vehicle. A general rule of thumb is that you should be able to see their side mirrors for them to be able to see you if you are behind them, and be able to see the driver in the mirror if you are driving alongside of them.

Do Not Pass Trucks on the Right

There is a larger blind spot on the right side of large trucks. If you pass a truck on the right, the driver may not be able to see your vehicle. They may decide to change lanes while you are in their blind spot on the right. Pass on the left and do it quickly, and do not keep even pace with a large truck if possible. This keeps you in their blind spot and increases risk of deadly accidents.

Do Not Cut Off a Large Truck and Avoid Sudden Stops

Tractor trailers and other large trucks take much longer to stop than passenger vehicles. If you cut in front of a large truck then suddenly hit your brakes, the driver may not be able to stop in time. While the truck driver may be at fault if they hit you, there is a good chance you may not survive the crash. Do not put your life at risk. Do not cut off big trucks, and avoid staying in their path.

Defensive driving around large trucks can minimize your risk of being involved in a truck accident. However, not all accidents can be avoided, especially if a truck driver is driving while fatigued, under the influence or in other negligent manners. If you or a family member are injured in a truck accident in Georgia, give us a call at Keith D. Leshine Attorney at Law, LLC in Duluth. We will review your claim for free and give you a recommendation on how to proceed with your injury claim.