Avoiding an 18-Wheeler Blind Spot Accident
The blind spots on an 18-wheeler truck are called ‘no-zones’ for a reason. They are so large and so dangerous that other motorists should try to avoid them at all times. Unfortunately, as motorists travel alongside commercial trucks on the highways and roads, it is not always possible to avoid these huge blind spots. So, how can you avoid getting into an accident when maneuvering around these large vehicles? Below, our San Antonio 18-wheeler accident lawyer explains how to do it.
Watch Your Speed
Sometimes, motorists enter a commercial truck’s blind spots without even realizing it. Most of the time, this is because they are speeding. In other instances, it is because they had to drastically reduce their speed, such as when there is a traffic jam ahead of them. Any time you are approaching an 18-wheeler, it is important to watch your speed to make sure you do not inadvertently remain in a truck’s no zone for too long.
Use Extreme Caution when Passing
Truck drivers often operate their vehicle at a much lower speed than other vehicles. This is particularly true when they are fully loaded, making the trailer much heavier. When you are behind a slow-moving truck, you may want to pass them so you can travel more quickly. It is possible to pass an 18-wheeler, but you must do so very carefully. Move quickly but cautiously so you do not remain in the no zone for too long. Remain vigilant so you can safely navigate around the truck and into your original lane without cutting off the truck.
Remove All Distractions
You should never text and drive, but doing so while navigating around an 18-wheeler poses even more significant dangers. You may not realize that a truck driver has signaled that they are going to move into your lane. Or, you may be in a no-zone behind the truck and fail to notice that it has come to a stop, causing you to crash into it. Also remember that there are other distractions besides your phone. Rowdy passengers, adjusting systems within the vehicle, and grooming are just a few distractions that could cause a no-zone accident. In addition, the truck driver may be fatigued, distracted, or not using the proper visual scans.
Avoid Tailgating
Truck drivers have no way to see what is directly behind their vehicle. A trucker may have to come to a quick stop (although this should not occur if they are following the rules of the road upon which they have been trained or should have been trained), which may cause the vehicle behind them to rear-end the 18-wheeler. Rear-end accidents involving trucks are much more serious than those involving passenger vehicles. A smaller vehicle may become involved in an underride accident when they tailgate, which is when a passenger vehicle slides under the truck. In many cases, these accidents are fatal for those in the smaller vehicle.
Our 18-Wheeler Accident Lawyer in San Antonio Can Help After a Crash
While there are many tips that can help you avoid a no zone accident with a commercial truck, a crash can still happen and can still be the truck driver’s fault and the trucking company’s fault. If you have been hurt, our San Antonio 18-wheeler accident lawyer at the Law Office of Israel Garcia can determine what caused your accident and help you obtain the full settlement you are entitled to. Call us now at 210-LAW-9999 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation and to learn more.
Source:
fmcsa.dot.gov/newsroom/no-zone-help
