Car Accident Lawyer

Encountering a large truck on the road can be intimidating, and the potential for an accident can be high due to their size and blind spots. Here are some steps to take if you believe you might get into an accident with a large truck according to a car accident lawyer from our friends at Council & Associates, LLC:

1. Stay Calm

Maintaining your composure is crucial in any potential accident scenario. Panicking can lead to rash decisions that may worsen the situation. Take a deep breath, stay focused and alert to avoid a collision.

2. Maintain Safe Distance

Always keep a safe distance from large trucks, giving you more time to react to their movements. This distance should be even greater in adverse weather conditions or at high speeds. Remember they have large blind spots, so try not to linger in those either.

3. Use Your Indicators

If you need to change lanes or direction, use your indicators well in advance. This alerts the truck driver to your intentions, giving them time to adjust their driving accordingly.

4. Stay Visible

Large trucks have bigger blind spots than cars. Try to stay where the truck driver can see you, either through their side mirrors or ahead of them. Avoid driving directly behind a truck where the driver can’t see you. Pass trucks as quickly as possible.

5. Be Predictable

Avoid sudden lane changes, accelerations, or decelerations. Predictable driving allows the truck driver to anticipate your actions and respond safely.

6. Be Extra Careful While Overtaking

If you need to overtake a large truck, do so quickly but safely, and only when it is legal and safe to do so. Make sure you can see the truck’s cab in your rear-view mirror before pulling back into your lane. If a truck starts to come into your lane, honk so they know you are there.

7. Avoid Distractions

Remove any potential distractions that could divert your attention from the road. You need to be fully aware of your surroundings and ready to react to sudden changes in traffic conditions.

8. Prepare for Wide Turns

Large trucks need more space to turn, especially to the right. If a truck has its turn signal on, do not try to squeeze by it or assume it is going straight just because it is in the left lane. Be patient and give the truck ample space to complete its turn. And if there are other drivers around that appear to be impatient, be cautious about getting too close as a multiple car pile up can happen.

9. Dial Emergency Services if Necessary

If you believe a collision is imminent, and there’s no way for you to prevent it, try to steer in a way that will minimize the impact. Dial emergency services if you can do so safely.

10. Practice Defensive Driving

Always be aware of the traffic around you and anticipate possible changes or dangers. This includes paying attention to brake lights ahead, watching for merging traffic, and expecting the unexpected. Constantly check your mirrors.

Should an accident occur despite your best efforts, prioritize safety. Check for injuries, call for emergency help if needed, and move your vehicle out of the traffic if it’s safe to do so. Exchange information with the truck driver and any witnesses, and report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible.

Remember, safety comes first on the road. When driving near large trucks, extra caution is required due to their size and limited maneuverability. Always respect these vehicles’ space on the road and drive defensively to minimize the risk of accidents. If you get into an accident, contact a lawyer near you for help.