Anyone who drives in the Sacramento area has probably encountered commercial trucks. Eason & Tambornini’s truck accident attorneys have helped countless people injured in commercial truck accidents up and down the Interstate 5 and Highway 99 corridors in Northern California.
Imagine driving a passenger vehicle in the center lane of a packed four-lane freeway, a typical condition on Interstate 5. What are your options when a 35,000-pound commercial truck veers into your lane, follows too close, or begins driving unsafely? Imagine that same truck with a full trailer, which means up to 80,000 pounds. Now what?
While your options may be limited, there are some driving habits everyone can adopt to reduce the chances of tangling with a big rig. If the worst happens, you can call Eason & Tambornini’s truck accident attorneys for help. We charge no fees until and unless you win your case. You don’t pay a dime if you don’t win a settlement.
Safe Driving Around Big Rigs
Safe driving habits around commercial trucks are critical for truck drivers and other motorists. Due to their size, weight, and limited maneuverability, commercial trucks pose unique challenges and potential hazards that require extra caution from the other vehicles they share the road with. Here are a few habits to consider when on the freeway in a sea of commercial trucks.
- I’d like you always to maintain a safe following distance.
First and foremost, maintaining a safe following distance is crucial when driving around commercial trucks. Remember that trucks must also be on the lookout for vehicles swerving in and out of traffic, distracted, or otherwise driving unsafely. This means they may have to hit their brakes hard since their stopping distance is much greater than smaller vehicles. Always leave ample space between your car and the truck ahead of you to give yourself as much time as possible if something happens.
- Stay out of a commercial truck’s blind spots.
A truck’s blind spots are called “no-zones” for a reason. Blind spots exist on all sides of the truck, particularly on the right side (the truck’s passenger side) and directly behind the trailer. Take note: If you can’t see the truck driver in their side mirrors, they probably can’t see you either. When you pass a truck on a freeway, don’t linger longer than you need to when traveling past them. The goal is to remain visible to the truck driver as much as possible while passing.
- Please be aware of the weather.
Being mindful of adverse weather conditions is vital, especially when driving near commercial trucks. Gusty winds and tall vehicles don’t mix. Trucks may need more space to maintain control or correct unintentional movements due to the wind. Give them extra room, especially when passing. Distance is crucial in other poor weather, like rain, snow, or fog. Reduce your speed to allow for decreased braking ability, increase your following distance behind a truck, and show courtesy when merging into a lane in front of them.
- Please don’t hesitate to remove any distractions and pay attention.
It is essential to avoid distractions while operating any vehicle, especially if the freeway around you is crowded with big trucks. Obey all laws regarding using your phone while driving (don’t!). Avoid distractions such as eating, adjusting the radio or other controls on the dash, or engaging in any conversation with passengers or on your headset that takes your attention away from the road. Conversations, eating, and AC adjustments can wait.
- Don’t compete: let your defensive driving skills shine.
Regardless of how you feel about the 18-wheeler behind you behaving (following too closely) or whether the one up ahead is changing lanes too frequently or pulling into your lane to pass another truck, it’s imperative to respect commercial trucks’ weight and limited maneuverability. If you don’t like how a truck is driving, stay calm and pay attention to what you can control: your vehicle.
Even when driving safely, accidents with big rigs can occur. If you or a loved one has been hurt, we can help. I just wanted to let you know that consultations are free, and you are not obligated to proceed with a claim. If we work together, we will fight vigorously for the maximum settlement possible to recover your medical and property expenses and any other damages you may have experienced.
Call Eason & Tambornini right now at 916-438-1819 to schedule a free consultation. We will answer your questions and help you on the road to recovery.
