Trucking accidents can be devastating, and taking steps to prevent them is important. We’ve put together some tips to help keep yourself safe on the road and avoid trucking accidents.
South Carolina’s scenic highways are often traversed by large commercial vehicles traveling both interstate and intrastate. Unfortunately, nearly 75 people die each year in large truck accidents. According to the South Carolina Department of Public Safety (SCDPS), over 4,000 truck collisions occurred in 2014 (the last year on record).
Keep a Safe Distance
Trucks are much larger and heavier than cars, which means they require more time and space to come to a stop. Be sure to keep at least one car’s distance between you and a truck at all times. It is important to keep a safe distance from trucks and avoid tailgating.
Use Your Mirrors
Be aware of the trucks around you and use your mirrors to monitor their movements. Use your mirrors and stay vigilant of trucks coming up on your vehicle’s side. Avoid staying in a truck’s blind spots, as they may not be able to see you. Trucks have large blind spots, or “no zones,” on all sides of the vehicle. These blind spots can extend up to 20 feet in front of the cab, as well as to the sides and rear of the trailer.
Be Patient
Trucks may move slower than cars, especially on hills or when accelerating from a stop. Be patient and avoid aggressive driving around trucks. Cutting off a truck can be extremely dangerous. Trucks require much more time and distance to come to a stop than cars, and sudden maneuvers can cause the truck driver to lose control of their vehicle, resulting in a serious accident or collision.
While there are many potential contributing causes for a trucking accident, the injuries and property damage that result from such collisions are usually catastrophic simply due to the sheer size and weight of 18-wheeler trucks and trailers. If you have been involved in a South Carolina trucking accident, consult with a truck accident attorney from Harbin & Burnett.
Our experienced lawyers at Harbin & Burnett represent drivers injured in serious SC truck accidents due to the negligence of another motorist. If you have suffered a personal injury or lost a loved one to wrongful death as a result of a trucking accident, contact the law firm of Harbin & Burnett LLP, at 888.821.0247. Our extensive experience in negotiation and litigation may be able to help you recover full and fair compensation.
