Commercial trucks are some of the most enormous vehicles on our roadways and, as such, can cause some of the most devastating and catastrophic accidents. This is especially true when a smaller vehicle is involved in an accident with one of these massive trucks traveling at high speeds. Because there are so many risk factors that lead to these accidents, it is important to understand the many reasons why passenger vehicles and trucks collide and how these collisions can be prevented by being cautious.

Ways to Prevent Commercial Truck Accidents

Maintain Proper Following Distance: Many people fail to maintain adequate space when they are sharing the roads with truck drivers. Because trucks are so large, keeping space between vehicles is one of the most important aspects you should remember when sharing the roadways. When a driver is following a truck too closely, they might not see approaching hazards. A driver should always stay back so that they have time to slow down or come to a complete stop when there is a dangerous situation coming up on the road.

One should also remember that trucks stop at a longer pace than many vehicles. This means that a truck might require approximately 90% more space to stop than a passenger vehicle would. This means that a large following distance should always be remembered and drivers should never suddenly cut in front of trucks.

Remember Blind Spots: Trucks have larger blind spots than any other vehicle on the road. In fact, when a driver is alongside the passenger’s side of a truck, it is nearly impossible for a truck driver to see them. This is why drivers should always pass a truck on the driver’s side because they will never be seen in any other way. You should always look in the truck’s mirror when you are passing. If you cannot see their face, your vehicle is in a blind spot and the driver does not see your vehicle.

Leave Space: Passenger vehicles should always pay close attention to how much space they have on the roadways, especially when they are pulling over. This is why drivers in small vehicles are always urged to pull over as far as possible so that they can reduce the risk of a collision involving a large truck on our roadways. 

Remember Turns at Intersections: When large trucks are pulling through an intersection, they will have to make a wide turn or even use multiple lanes to get through the intersection. A driver should always stay back when a large truck is making a turn in one of these areas. Drivers must always pay attention to how much space they have left in the intersection so that trucks can make their turn.

How an Attorney Can Help After a Truck Accident

If you have already been injured in a truck accident that was not your fault, it is important that you have options. Our skilled attorneys at Sheftall & Associates understand how traumatic it can be to face the aftermath of a Florida truck accident and how unexpected these collisions can be. Luckily, you never have to stand alone during these challenging times. You have help every step of the way. Please contact our skilled Florida attorneys at 904-647-2296 for the help you deserve in your time of need.