When driving in close proximity to a commercial vehicle, such as a tractor-trailer, it’s a must to take additional care as a means of preventing an accident.
There are many common causes of car-truck accidents, including the following:
- Drowsy driving: Commercial truckers are known for pushing their mind and body to the limit, which often leads to drowsy driving. Even if a trucker doesn’t fall asleep at the wheel, driving drowsy impairs their ability to make sound decisions.
- Drunk driving: This includes driving under the influence of illegal drugs, prescription drugs and/or alcohol.
- Distracted driving: Anything that takes a driver’s attention away from the road is a distraction. Common examples include texting, talking on the phone, reading a map, eating or drinking.
- Reckless driving: This takes on many forms, such as excessive speeding, changing lanes without signaling and aggressive driving.
- Unrealistic schedule: With this, the trucking company is part to blame. An unrealistic schedule may cause a trucker to drive too fast and/or avoid taking the necessary breaks.
- Lack of training: Commercial truckers have a challenging job. The right training can be the difference between causing an accident and remaining safe at all times.
Here are some things you can do to lessen the risk of a car-truck accident:
- Make yourself visible: Avoid driving in a trucker’s blind spot, which includes the area directly next to and behind the vehicle.
- Pass in the left lane: Never attempt to pass any vehicle in the right lane, especially a commercial truck, as the driver is not likely to see you.
- Use your turn signals: Give every driver a clear idea of what your next move is going to be.
If you’re injured in a car-truck accident, turn your immediate attention to first-aid and ensuring that an ambulance arrives as quickly as possible.
After receiving treatment at a local hospital, you’ll understand your injuries and prognosis. You can then turn your attention to the cause of the accident, filing an insurance claim and learning more about your legal rights. There are steps you can take to seek compensation from the negligent party, which often includes the trucker and trucking company.
Visit our website for additional information on car-truck accidents, including how to protect your legal rights in Oklahoma.
