Representing Injured People

What risks do you need to be aware of when driving near a truck?

On Behalf of | Mar 21, 2023 | Car Accidents

All drivers know that the road is full of dangers, no matter where you are or what kind of vehicle you drive. You always have to be watching out for what other people are doing and trying to stay a step ahead of everyone else’s actions. On top of that, you have to concentrate on your own driving too.

One of the main concerns motorists have is the risk posed by large commercial trucks. They can be really intimidating, especially because they’re likely so much bigger than your vehicle. But, what dangers should you look out for when you’re driving near them?

Look out for any erratic or dangerous movements

Is the truck swerving between lanes? Is the driver making abrupt maneuvers without giving enough notice or signaling? Are they braking suddenly or driving too fast? These behaviors could all be signs that the driver is not paying attention or perhaps falling asleep behind the wheel. The best course of action in these situations is to maintain your distance. Keep enough distance behind the truck so you can see its wing mirrors, and avoid any sudden or surprising movements to make sure you don’t veer into its blind spot.

Stay back if you notice an uneven load

Even though trucking companies have a responsibility to ensure that goods are loaded correctly and securely, this isn’t always the case. There are occasions when you may be suspicious that a load is uneven because the truck driver is driving poorly, or you may even be able to see the weight moving around. In this situation, you ought to move out of the way by carefully passing the vehicle if you can. Make sure to stay back if getting past the truck is not an option.

There are times that accidents occur due to the fault of truck drivers, no matter how much you may try to avoid the dangers they pose. In these circumstances, you may be entitled to compensation if you find yourself injured as a result. Seeking legal guidance can help you to get started with this process.