No one wants to get involved in an accident with a big truck. An accident involving a big rig can be devastating to both the vehicle and its passengers because of the vast differences in size and mass between a truck and a passenger vehicle. Big truck accidents can cause severe, even fatal injuries to the occupants of a passenger vehicle.
The best way to prevent an accident with a big truck is to avoid getting yourself into risky situations out on the road. Here are four things you should never do while sharing the road with a big truck:
1. Never Pass on the Right — Especially When Driving Near Big Trucks
Passing any vehicle on the right is usually against the law, and something you should never do when driving near big trucks. Large semi-trucks make wide right turns, so they must swing to the left when attempting a turn. If you try to pass on the right while a big truck is trying to make a right turn, it could slam right into your vehicle.
2. Never Cut Off a Big Truck
It’s never a good idea to cut off a big truck. It’s also not a good idea to refuse to yield the right of way or brake check a truck. Even a bobtail truck weighs several times more than an automobile. This means it takes them longer to stop — a large tractor-trailer traveling 60 mph takes almost a thousand feet to come to a complete stop.
3. Never Linger in a Big Truck’s Blind Spots
Large trucks have bigger blind spots than regular vehicles. These blind spots are located directly in front and behind the truck and on both the right and left sides. Try not to linger in these blind spots when approaching, passing, or driving in front of a big truck. Avoid tailgating and cruising alongside a big truck — they may not see you if they have to hit their brakes, change lanes, or make a turn.
4. Never Drive While Distracted
You should always keep your attention focused on the road and what’s going on around you; distracted driving is especially dangerous around big trucks. Maintain a safe distance when sharing the road with an 18-wheeler. Be careful when approaching and passing a big truck. Staying alert and obeying the traffic laws — especially the posted speed limits — is the best way to avoid an accident while you’re out on the roads.
Protect Your Rights After a Big Truck Accident in Central Florida
Have you been injured in an accident in Central Florida that was caused by the negligent actions of a truck driver or trucking company? Contact Rivas Law Group without delay. If you’ve suffered injuries or property damage because of your accident with a big truck in Lakeland, Lutz, or Winter Haven or anywhere else in Central Florida, personal injury attorney Tania Rivas can help you get the compensation you deserve.
You can get in touch with Rivas Law Group using our website or call us at (877) 299-5539 to schedule an appointment with Lakeland truck accident lawyer Tania Rivas. Tania represents her clients on a contingency basis, which means you pay nothing unless she is able to get you a fair and just settlement.
