Semi trucks, also known as 18-wheelers, are a common sight on highways and roads across the United States. Every day, they transport massive amounts of goods, from consumer products to raw materials, ensuring the flow of commerce. While these trucks are essential to our economy, they can also pose serious dangers to other drivers. With their sheer size and power, semi trucks require specialized handling, and understanding the risks they present can help keep everyone safer on the road.

In this blog, we’ll break down the key facts about semi trucks, the potential hazards they create, and tips on how to drive safely around them. We’ll also explore the legal side of truck accidents and how personal injury lawyers can help victims navigate the aftermath.

Understanding the Hazards of Sharing the Road with Semi Trucks

Size and Weight

One of the most significant dangers of semi trucks is their size and weight. These massive vehicles can weigh up to 80,000 lbs, about 20 times heavier than a typical car. This immense weight puts a strain on roads and bridges and, more importantly, makes semi trucks much harder to maneuver than passenger vehicles.

The sheer size of these trucks can create significant blind spots for truck drivers. This means that smaller vehicles may be invisible to a truck driver when they attempt to merge, change lanes, or turn. When driving near a truck, always be aware of these blind spots, which extend to the sides, the rear, and sometimes even the front of the truck.

Longer Stopping Distances

Due to their weight and size, semi trucks require much longer distances to come to a complete stop than passenger cars. While a typical car might need about 130-160 feet to stop at highway speeds, a semi truck can take up to 300 feet or more to stop. This is crucial information to consider when following a semi truck, especially when driving downhill or in adverse weather conditions.

If you’re following a semi truck, always maintain a safe following distance. Keeping at least 4-5 seconds between your car and a truck can give you enough time to react in case the truck suddenly stops.

Turning Radius and Blind Spots

Another danger posed by semi trucks is their wide turning radius. A semi truck’s average turning radius is about 55 feet, which can create hazards when the truck driver is making a turn. Drivers of smaller vehicles may find themselves getting caught in a truck’s wide turn if they aren’t paying attention.

Additionally, trucks have large blind spots, especially to the right side and behind them. If you find yourself driving alongside or behind a semi truck, make sure to give them plenty of room, particularly when they’re turning or changing lanes.

How to Drive Safely Around Semi Trucks

Knowing how to share the road with semi trucks is essential for your safety. Here are some tips for driving safely around these massive vehicles:

Avoid the No-Zone

Every semi truck has large blind spots, also called “No-Zones,” where the driver cannot see you. These blind spots exist on the right side of the truck, directly behind it, and to the left rear. If you’re driving in one of these zones, the truck driver won’t be able to see you, making it dangerous to pass or change lanes.

To stay safe, avoid lingering in these No-Zones for too long. If you’re passing a truck, do so quickly and ensure you can see the truck driver in their side mirror before returning to your lane.

Be Mindful of Wind Gusts

When driving near a large truck, especially in crosswinds, you may experience sudden gusts of wind that can push your car sideways. This is more pronounced when you’re passing a truck, as the wind can forcefully push against your vehicle.

Always be prepared for these wind shifts and maintain a firm grip on the steering wheel when passing a semi truck. If you’re driving in adverse weather conditions, such as rain or wind, give yourself extra space and reduce your speed.

Don’t Cut Off a Semi Truck

Semi trucks need more time to accelerate and slow down than smaller vehicles, so cutting in front of a truck too quickly can be dangerous. If you need to change lanes or merge in front of a truck, ensure you leave plenty of space. Cutting off a truck can force the driver to brake suddenly, which may result in an accident.

Always check your mirrors before making any lane changes and be cautious when driving near a truck, especially on highways with high-speed traffic.

Truck Accidents and Personal Injury Law

Despite our best efforts to drive safely, truck accidents can still occur. When they do, the consequences can be devastating. Given the size and weight of semi trucks, collisions often result in serious injuries or fatalities for those involved in the accident.

Who’s Responsible for a Truck Accident?

In the aftermath of a truck accident, it’s essential to determine who is responsible for the crash. Depending on the circumstances, several parties may be at fault, including the truck driver, the trucking company, maintenance workers, and even the company that loaded the truck. A truck accident lawyer can help you identify who is liable and pursue a legal claim against them.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents

Truck accidents can occur for a variety of reasons, including:

• Driver fatigue: Truck drivers are often under pressure to meet tight deadlines, which can lead to long hours behind the wheel and fatigue. Fatigue is a major cause of truck accidents, as it impairs a driver’s reaction times and decision-making.
• Improper loading: If a truck is loaded improperly, it can affect the vehicle’s stability and increase the risk of accidents, especially in turns or sudden maneuvers.
• Distracted driving: Like all drivers, truck drivers are susceptible to distractions, whether from mobile devices, adjusting the radio, or other in-cab distractions.

Seeking Compensation for Your Injuries

If you’ve been involved in a truck accident, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Truck accident lawyers specialize in these types of cases and have the experience and knowledge necessary to navigate the complexities of truck accident laws.

These lawyers can investigate the accident, gather evidence, and work with experts to build a strong case. They’ll advocate on your behalf and fight to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Conclusion

Semi trucks are an integral part of the transportation system, but their size and weight present significant dangers on the road. By understanding how to drive safely around them and being aware of the potential risks, you can reduce the likelihood of an accident. However, if you find yourself involved in a truck accident, it’s crucial to seek legal counsel from an experienced truck accident lawyer to ensure your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve.

Drive safely and always stay aware of your surroundings, especially when sharing the road with large commercial trucks.