There’s no doubt that driving any automotive vehicle can be dangerous. But when involved in an accident, some vehicles can prove more dangerous than others. The damage that can be caused by a tractor-trailer far exceeds that of a car. At 80,000 pounds, an average tractor-trailer weighs about 20 times more than an average car.
Injuries and property damage caused by a tractor-trailer can be very serious. While a rear-end car accident might result in whiplash or a concussion, a rear-end collision from a tractor-trailer can often cause much more damage.
While tractor-trailers can cause a lot of destruction when involved in an accident, there are things that you can do to avoid an accident with one. Here are some tips for sharing the road safely with tractor-trailers.
Wear Your Seatbelt
It may be hard to believe, but some people still don’t wear a seatbelt. However, North Carolina state law requires that all passengers wear one. The simple act of wearing a seatbelt can save your life. Any time you move the car out of park your seatbelt should be on.
Avoid Blind Spots
It’s best to always assume that the driver of a tractor-trailer cannot see you – especially if you are unable to see them in the truck’s side mirror. Since trucks are built high off of the ground, it’s important that you don’t stop too close, since that may also put you in a blind spot.
Expect Wide Turns
Trucks require additional room when making a turn. They may even begin to turn from a middle lane. That’s why it’s so important that you don’t try to squeeze by them. Also, do not “block the box” at an intersection so that a tractor-trailer can safely make a turn.
Pass Safely
It’s always important that you signal before making a move, but it is especially imperative when it comes to doing so around a tractor-trailer. Always be sure that you are far enough back from the truck to see the driver in their side mirror. Then clearly signal before moving into the left lane and accelerating so as to pass the tractor-trailer in order to pass back in front of them. Always make sure that you pass far enough in front of the tractor-trailer; extra space is good. Don’t try to pass a truck in the right lane, and never pass on a downward hill since they will pick up speed.
Be Patient
When all else fails, simply remember to be patient. It will take a tractor-trailer longer to start and stop than it would another passenger car, due to its size and weight. Refrain from honking or driving aggressively. The more distractions you provide, the likelier a crash becomes. Bear in mind that distracted driving is no less dangerous than impaired driving. Just be patient.
An Experienced Truck Accident Attorney Can Help
If you or a loved one has been injured in a tractor-trailer accident, it can result in very serious – even deadly – consequences. The experienced Truck Accident Attorneys at Daggett Shuler understand the serious nature of such an accident and understand how to best deal with insurance adjusters. We want to help you to move forward. Contact us at 336-724-1234 .
Daggett Shuler Law – You Can Depend on Us