Commercial trucks and tractor-trailers are large, heavy and extremely dangerous when they are involved in an accident. Indeed, semi-truck drivers and the drivers of smaller vehicles are all in great danger of suffering fatal injuries whenever such an incident occurs. For this reason, it is vital for truck drivers to be vigilant in keeping their eyes on the road; in using extra caution and never driving when they are drowsy or under the influence of an intoxicant.
Also, there are some specific actions and situations that motor vehicle drivers must strive to avoid — regardless if they are in the presence of a semi-truck — if they hope to prevent a fatal wreck from occurring. Many of these dangerous actions are common on Virginia roads. Nevertheless, if a driver engages in one of these activities and it results in an accident or injury, that driver could be liable for damages.
In order to prevent semi-truck accidents, car drivers should avoid driving in No-Zones; that is do not drive right behind or on the side of large trucks where visibility for the truck driver is usually zero. Drivers should also refrain from fast lane changes near semi-trucks. Further, they should merge slowly and cautiously onto highways when a big truck is nearby so that the truck driver has enough time to respond. Also, never drive in between two large trucks. Never leave your vehicle sitting unattended and idle in a lane of traffic. If a vehicle has become disabled, always remove it completely from the roadway.
There are other important pieces of advice with regard to safe driving practices around big trucks. However, there is no substitute for common sense and basic defensive driving. By being careful, Virginia automobile drivers and their passengers can hopefully avoid causing and/or suffering fatal injuries in a semi-truck accident.
Source: FindLaw, “Common Causes of Truck Accidents” Sep. 11, 2014