Truck accidents can be catastrophic, often resulting in serious injuries or fatalities. In 2022, nearly 6,000 large trucks were involved in deadly crashes in the United States, representing a 49% increase over the last decade. With trucks accounting for just 6% of vehicles but 10% of all miles driven, their overrepresentation in fatal accidents is alarming.
As a family, being aware of truck safety and taking preventative measures is essential. Here are 5 ways you can help protect your loved ones from a devastating truck accident.
1. Check Your Car Seats
Using properly installed car seats appropriate for your child’s age, height and weight is one of the best ways to safeguard young passengers. Rear-facing seats are safest for infants and toddlers. As kids grow, transition them to forward-facing seats with a harness system before finally using booster seats. Check the installation periodically and register your car seat to be notified of recalls. Proper use of car seats reduces fatalities by 71% for infants and 54% for toddlers in passenger vehicles. In a truck crash, correctly secured car seats can be the difference between life and death.
2. Give Trucks Plenty of Space
Due to their large size and limited maneuverability, trucks need more time and space to brake and change lanes. Avoid driving alongside a truck for prolonged periods. Hang back to keep the rear wheels in sight, allowing for at least a 3-second following distance. Give ample room when passing, as trucks create wind gusts and need double the usual space to avoid sideswiping you. Never cut in front of a truck just because you see an open road ahead. Understanding their limitations helps you steer clear of dangerous interactions.
3. Be Extra Vigilant Near Truck Blind Spots
Unlike passenger vehicles, trucks have large blind spots where drivers cannot see cars in adjacent or close proximity. Areas around the front fenders, along both sides of the trailer, and immediately behind the rig are invisible to truckers. Never drive or linger in these blind spots, as truck drivers cannot react to avoid collisions with vehicles they simply cannot see. Tailgating removes your ability to avoid a rear-end crash. By being constantly aware of a truck’s blind spots, you position your car safely where the truck operator can spot you.
4. Avoid Driver Fatigue
Long-haul truckers are at high risk for driver fatigue due to lack of sleep and irregular schedules. Drowsy driving dramatically slows reaction time and decision-making skills while impairing attention and focus. Avoid driving drowsy yourself or riding with a fatigued driver. Schedule regular stops to nap, stretch your legs, and consume caffeine. Let a rested driver take over at the first yawn. For truckers, bus drivers,s and other professionals, fatigue causes thousands of wrecks annually. Mitigating exhaustion is vital.
5. Contact a Truck Accident Attorney
If your family is involved in a collision with a commercial truck, immediately contact experienced truck accident lawyers. Complex factors are involved, such as company negligence in truck maintenance and driver training, overly long shifts, outdated equipment, and more. An 18-wheeler accident attorney can investigate all aspects of the accident, determine fault, calculate damages, and file insurance claims and lawsuits on your behalf. With their legal expertise, truck accident attorneys protect your rights and advocate for your family during a devastating time.
Staying aware on the roads while driving defensively can steer your loved ones clear of devastating truck collisions. However, if misfortune occurs, a qualified attorney provides invaluable guidance and support. With these five tips, you can empower yourself and protect those you love from harm.
