Written by Christopher on August 29, 2017

Safe Driving Tips to Prevent Truck Accidents

Automotive

Its estimated that there are over half a million truck companies across the nation that keep over 15.5 million trucks on the roads. Over 2 million of those trucks are tractor-trailers, and more than 3.5 million Americans are professional truck drivers. Everyone knows driving haphazardly around a commercial truck can be a dangerous and dumb decision. In 2010, almost 3,500 fatal accidents involving large trucks occurred, and 14% of those fatalities were occupants of the trucks. Approximately 75% of all truck fatalities involve tractor-trailers. Fortunately, there are some simple but effective driving tips to help prevent a commercial truck accident.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents

The outcome of a truck lawsuit depends on whos at fault. But there are a number of reasons these accidents happen in the first place. Bad weather and road conditions cant be helped on either side. Defective equipment, poor maintenance, improperly secured loads, and load shifts can easily cause serious issues and resulting accidents. Inexperienced driving, driver exhaustion, and reckless driving are common causes on both ends as well. Intoxication and road rage are other concerns. Road rage is a bad decision in any case, but your bulb has to be extra dim to take road rage out on a semi-truck or large cargo carrier.

Safety Tips for Car Drivers

The average road-worthy vehicle weighs over two tons, so losing control of it can be a disaster. While you cant control what others do on the road, driving appropriately at all times on your end can help ensure a truck accident attorney is never needed. So, always be wary of trucks on the road and pay attention to their driving patterns. Take special precautions during bad weather or other poor driving conditions as slipping and limited vision can get out of hand on all ends. Watch out and be accountable for the trucks blind spotsif youre not in their side mirror, they wont be able to see you. Avoid any type of road rage at all times. And if youre worried or have any doubts about driving around a specific truck, get off the road. Its always better to be safe than sorry.

Safety Tips for Truckers

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, trucking industry occupations account for 25% of all work-related fatalities in the U.S. In fact, those numbers have risen 11.2% over the past five years. But accidents can be prevented altogether with the right precautions. Always sleep well before a long haul. Eat right and exercise to ensure proper attention and increase alertness. Take the time to check and maintain your truck before every before every haul and always wear your seatbelt. Keep your distance and drive defensively. Pay attention to your no zone and slow down in work zones. And always notify authorities of unsafe driving conditions, dangerous drivers, and local crashes. By going the extra mile and prioritizing safety over speed, youre far more likely to avoid being part of a Michigan truck accident.