Semis and other large commercial vehicles seem to be everywhere. While the public appreciates the valuable services these vehicles provide, it is sometimes scary to share the road with these massive vehicles. This is particularly the case when you think about how many commercial vehicle accidents occur each year in Iowa.
Often, truck driver negligence contributes to or causes commercial vehicle accidents. Examples of negligence include the following.
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Fatigued or distracted driving
- Failure to comply with industry regulations
- Failure to obey traffic laws
Other times, a crash is a tragic accident that most victims feel they could not have avoided.
Motorists may be able to help avoid a commercial vehicle accident by learning how to share the road with large vehicles safely. For example:
- Give large trucks a lot of space whenever possible.
- Practice extra caution in the dark and make sure you can see the truck and its trailer.
- Stay out of a truck’s blind spots or “no zones.”
- Hang back if a truck on your left is making a right turn in order to give the driver enough room.
- On a multi-lane roadway, move into another lane until the truck passes.
- Avoid driving close to large vehicles in windy conditions or on ramps because they can roll over in such conditions.
- Whenever possible, try to make eye contact with a trucker so that you know he or she is aware of your vehicle.
Whether or not you believe your collision was unavoidable, it is a good idea to discuss your case with an attorney. Doing so could provide you with the tools you need to get compensation for your injuries.
Source: Safe Bee, “How to Drive Safely Near Tractor-Trailers,” Ronald Agrella, accessed April 23, 2018