Truck Driver Wants Others To Stay Safe On The Roads

On behalf of Lovett Law Firm posted in Truck Accidents on Thursday, December 10, 2015.

When you’re on the roads, it’s important for all drivers to be safe. That includes 18-wheeler truck drivers along with others.

It’s important to remember that these trucks can’t stop as fast as smaller passenger vehicles, and that can lead to accidents. In a news report out of Austin, one truck driver discussed the issue of dangerous drivers and how they put their own lives at risk by cutting him off in traffic or staying in his blind spot.

Between Hays, Travis, and Williamson Counties, there have been 560 18-wheeler accidents in 2015. Of those, 15 were fatal for the people involved. Across Texas, the number of accidents increases to 800 in 2014. The question some have is who is to blame for these accidents? Sometimes it’s the truck drivers, but it’s also commonly other passenger vehicle drivers.

To stay safe around these vehicles, make sure you keep your distance. If you can see the driver’s mirrors, that means that he or she can see you, too. If not, then it’s likely you’re driving in a blind spot and should move so you can see the mirrors clearly.

When passing an 18-wheeler, make sure to give the driver enough time to stop or slow down. Many of these trucks are loaded with tons of material, and that can make it difficult to slow the vehicle quickly. There’s also a difference in response time for the braking system when the vehicle is loaded versus unloaded, so prepare to give truck drivers a wide berth to prevent accidents and injuries.

If you’re hurt despite making sure you’re driving safely, it’s possible that you can still hold the driver accountable for the collision. Your attorney can help you collect the evidence you’ll need in court.

Source: KVUE, “Trucker wants people to be safer on the roads,” Amber Downing, Dec. 09, 2015