Truck accidents can lead to serious, life-changing injuries. People who are riding in passenger vehicles when they are hit by a truck could suffer from permanent disabilities or serious head injuries that impact them for the rest of their lives.
The reason that truck accidents are often so serious is because of the weight discrepancies between the two vehicles. Did you know that the maximum weight for a U.S. semitruck with a full trailer is 80,000 pounds? A typical passenger vehicle weighs around 3,000 pounds, so you can see that there is a huge discrepancy. A semi can easily crush a smaller vehicle, leading to crushing injuries and other forms of severe trauma.
Passenger-vehicle drivers can take steps to limit their risk of an accident
How can you prevent a crash with a semi? The rules are relatively easy to remember. Give the semi plenty of space, whether it’s in front of you or behind. Stay out of the vehicle’s blind spots (alongside the truck and when traveling too closely at the rear) and do your best not to slam on your brakes if a semi is coming up behind you.
Remember, the drivers of semis are trained to control their vehicles, but there are simply actions that these large vehicles can’t do. They can’t stop quickly, and the vehicles aren’t simple to maneuver. If you can, always give them time to make adjustments, and try not to make sudden movements.
If you do end up in an accident with a large truck, call 911 right away and wait for help to arrive. Everyone involved may be in shock and dealing with injuries, so it’s important to call for emergency care as soon as possible. You can reach out to your attorney after you are stable for more assistance.
