Accidents with large semi-trucks account for one in eight fatalities on the roads. The best way for Ohio drivers to avoid truck accidents is to be aware of the limitations of these vehicles.
Truck accidents and personal injury
Semi-trucks on the road are essential to the modern way of life. Unfortunately, many passenger car drivers do not understand the complexities of large vehicles, and this can lead to truck accidents and personal injury.
One of the most common rules to know is that if you, as a driver, are unable to see the truck’s side mirrors, the driver of that truck cannot see your vehicle. Keeping a safe distance when following a truck means that you need to always be able to see the truck’s side mirrors.
Avoiding truck accidents
There are a few other important ways to avoid truck accidents and personal injury. These include the following:
- Keep in mind that large trucks need more room and time to turn. This includes pulling to the left to ultimately turn right.
- Trucks need more room to stop, so give them space before pulling in front of them when passing.
- Be aware that you could be in a truck’s blind spot even if you can see the side mirrors. This means you should not drive for long periods of time next to a truck.
- When backing up, trucks sometimes block intersections or roadways. It is best to wait until the truck is finished instead of driving behind it.
Always practice safe driving habits
Whether you’re sharing the road with large trucks or not, it is always a good idea to practice safe driving. This includes avoiding distracted driving like cellphone use, making sure to get enough sleep prior to trips and stopping regularly to rest and refresh during your trip. Taking precautions like these can help prevent car accidents.