Accidents with large trucks at high speeds are often fatal – especially for the driver and passengers inside the smaller vehicle.
Most drivers have driven behind or beside a large truck and know that their size poses a risk to smaller vehicles. However, there are several other reasons why large trucks are dangerous to cars, and unfortunately, truck accidents are increasing rather than decreasing in frequency.
What makes trucks so dangerous?
- Large trucks have significant blind spots on all four sides, and if the driver of a smaller vehicle cannot see the truck driver in their side mirror, the truck driver cannot see them.
- Driving at high speeds behind or next to a large truck poses a risk to any vehicle in close proximity because trucks do not have the same ability to stop as quickly and efficiently as smaller vehicles do.
- When driving by a large truck, anticipate wide turns. If the truck driver fails to turn on their signal, it can easily cause a fatal accident in seconds.
- Avoid distractions when driving around large trucks, particularly cell phones, smartphones and GPS equipment, which can take your eyes off the road in front of you and cause you to drive into the truck if the truck driver inadvertently stops.
- Drivers can fail to respect traffic laws and regulations, such as drinking under the influence of alcohol or drugs, which can add risk factors to driving alongside a truck or larger commercial vehicle.
It is almost impossible to avoid trucks altogether. However, if you are exceptionally cautious when driving around them, you could help prevent an accident, which could save your and other people’s lives.