The rise in spring truck accidents demands increased awareness and precautions from all road users. Just a few years ago, the United States witnessed a troubling 9% surge in fatalities resulting from crashes involving large trucks. Unfortunately, these accidents pose a greater risk to drivers and passengers of smaller noncommercial vehicles. As we enter into warmer months, when most fatal accidents occur, it is crucial to prepare ourselves and adopt vigilant road practices.
Why Does Spring Bring More Accidents?
Spring brings a new set of driving dangers as the icy roads of winter fade away. Warmer weather attracts more motorists eager to engage in outdoor activities like camping, fishing, and boating. So there is an influx of slow-moving campers and trailers on the roads, as well.
The increased volume of motorists heightens crash risks for everyone on the road. What’s more, warmer weather encourages more pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists to take to the city streets. Fog and rain further compound the hazards of spring driving. The risk of sharing the road with large trucks and the failure of other motorists to cooperate with each other results in a surge of trucking accident fatalities.
Keep in mind the following tips to reduce the likelihood of spring truck accidents.
Avoid Blind Spots
When passing trucks on freeways, assume the truck driver can’t see you. Wait until the motorist ahead of you is clear of the truck to pass safely.
Give Truck Drivers Space
Always provide several car lengths of space between your vehicle and trucks. This is particularly important during windy conditions and when trucks experience tire blowouts or sudden braking.
Merge Cautiously
When merging onto freeways or highways, avoid merging in front of a big rig if traffic is moving slowly. Trucks require more time to slow down, especially when carrying a load.
Lower Your Brights
When driving at night and passing trucks, remember to lower your bright lights. Bright lights can temporarily blind truck drivers due to their strong reflection in truck mirrors.
Always Use Your Signals
Signal your intentions when merging after passing a truck and when merging onto an offramp. While truck drivers may leave their signals on until signaled by another driver, it’s important for motorists to communicate their movements clearly to truck drivers. This helps ensure a safe transition.
Choose Your Travel Times Carefully
If your schedule permits, avoid traveling between noon and 3 PM. Those hours see a higher occurrence of fatal truck accidents. Thursdays and Fridays also tend to have more incidents. Plan your routes in advance and allow sufficient time to resist the urge to speed.
Eliminate Distractions
Avoid distractions such as cell phone use and eating while driving. Even with the best driving practices, sudden moves by trucks can lead to serious accidents. Always maintain a safe distance.
Were You Involved in a Truck Accident This Spring?
Timeliness is crucial when it comes to preserving evidence and notifying the responsible party. If a trucking company is subject to federal motor carrier safety regulations, it must preserve essential documentation, including driver logs.
Contacting experienced professionals like Corradino & Papa, LLC can provide valuable guidance and support.
Stay safe on the roads this spring and remain vigilant. By following these tips in fostering cooperation among all road users, we can work toward reducing the incidence of truck accidents and protecting lives.
Find out what your rights are. If you have been involved in an accident or need a personal injury lawyer, call Corradino & Papa, LLC at 973-574-1200 or use our online form to contact a representative.