Truck collisions can have disastrous outcomes, leading to serious casualties and property damage. If you are involved in such an incident it is important to consult a truck accident lawyer in Calgary. Both truck drivers and other vehicles on the road must be aware of the main reasons for these collisions. We can significantly decrease the possibility of truck accidents and improve road safety by recognizing these reasons and proactively avoiding them.
Causes of Truck Accidents
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Fatigue and Drowsiness
Driver exhaustion is one of the main factors in truck accidents. Long work days are common for truck drivers, which can cause sleep deprivation and exhaustion, which can affect their decision-making and reaction times. Truck drivers must obtain enough rest before long travels in order to prevent accidents caused by fatigue. To prevent tiredness, they should follow set driving hours and take periodic rests. Additionally, other drivers need to exercise caution around trucks, particularly in the late hours of the night, and stay away from unexpected maneuvers that might startle tired drivers.
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Distracted Driving
All types of vehicles, especially trucks, have a serious problem with distracted driving. Mobile phones, navigational devices, eating, and reaching for objects are just a few of the things that might divert truck drivers. Truck drivers should emphasize keeping their focus on the road at all times to avoid accidents brought on by distracted driving. The use of electronic devices while driving must be avoided, and all distractions must be reduced to a minimum or eliminated.
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Improper Loading and Cargo Securing
Road dangers can result from improper loading and insufficient cargo securing. Inadequately secured or unevenly distributed transport might move during transport, tipping the vehicle off balance or letting the load fall off. Accidents resulting from this may put neighboring cars and the truck driver in danger. Truck drivers should receive sufficient training in cargo loading procedures and always double-check their cargo before heading out on the road to prevent accidents caused by incorrect loading.
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Speeding and Reckless Driving
The possibility of truck accidents is greatly increased by excessive speeding and irresponsible driving. Trucks have a longer stopping distance due to their size and weight, thus it’s essential for truck drivers to maintain proper speeds. Losing control, having slower response times, and having more rollovers are all consequences of speeding. To avoid collisions brought on by speeding and irresponsible driving, truck drivers must drive defensively, within the statutory speed limit, and without engaging in aggressive maneuvers.
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Poor Vehicle Maintenance
Truck accidents may result from improper vehicle maintenance. Devastating results on the road might result from problems with the brakes, tires, or lighting. To keep their vehicles in good condition, fleet managers and truck drivers must give regular maintenance and inspections first priority. Each and every trip should begin with a pre-trip check, and any issues should be fixed right away.
How to Avoid Truck Accidents
Following these essential tips can help both truck drivers and other drivers stay safe on the road and prevent truck accidents:
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Maintain Safe Distances
Maintain a safe separation between your car and the trucks. Trucks’ size and weight necessitate a greater stopping distance. It is possible for you to respond to any unexpected stops or truck maneuvers if you keep a safe trailing distance.
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Avoid Blind Spots
Pay attention to a truck’s blind spots, commonly referred to as “no-zones.” The sides and back of the vehicle are two places where the driver has poor vision. To reduce the chance of an accident, avoid spending too much time in these blind areas. The truck driver won’t be able to see you if you can’t be seen in their side mirrors.
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Pass Safely
Passing a truck should be done with prudence. Pre-announce your intentions, pick up speed appropriately, and quickly pass the truck. Avoid standing too close to a truck for too long since this raises the possibility of a collision. Because the truck’s blind spot is wider on the right, always pass on the left.
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Be Cautious During Turns
Trucks have a larger turning radius, so please be patient and give them plenty of room while turning. The effort to squeeze between a turning vehicle and the curb should be avoided as it may cause a major collision. Wait patiently for the vehicle to safely make its turn.
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Stay Visible
Use your headlights at the right times to make sure you are seen by truck drivers, especially in bad weather, at dawn, dusk, or in low light. Do not enter the blind zones of the truck, and express your intentions clearly.
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Exercise Patience
Recognize that trucks may require additional time to accelerate, brake, or change lanes. Maintain a calm mindset around vehicles and refrain from becoming resentful. Cutting off a vehicle or making a sudden lane change can be risky and raise the possibility of an accident.
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Stay Alert
Keep an eye on the road and keep an eye out for any potential dangers. Avoid using your phone, eating, or taking care of yourself while driving. Distracted driving is a major contributor to collisions and is especially risky when sharing the road with trucks.
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Report Unsafe Driving
Inform the appropriate authorities if you see a truck driver engaging in risky behavior, including erratic or aggressive driving. This measure can promote road safety by averting potential collisions.
Talk to Us Today!
Grover Law Firm is a trusted legal firm specializing in truck crash law. With their expertise and experience, our trucking lawyers near you will provide you with dedicated legal representation for individuals who need it.
We are here to ensure that you make it through this challenging time, and will help you with whatever you need. Please call or email us.