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Causes and Prevention of 18 Wheeler Accidents

According to the NTHSA, truck accidents wrongfully killed more than 3,600 individuals in 2010 and more than 80,000 individuals suffered injuries.

It is our Firm’s belief that many of these accidents were likely preventable.

These article discusses accepted ways to lessen or prevent such accidents from happening to you and your loved ones.

Common Causes of 18 Wheeler Accidents

18 wheeler, semi-truck and big rig wrecks or accidents can happen for a number of reasons. Some may be attributed to the truck driver themselves, while others are the fault of the other driver or party involved.

Truck drivers often get in wrecks by:

  • Driving distracted, using their cell phone, texting, or eating.
  • Making a traffic error.
  • Using drugs or consuming alcohol before driving.
  • Inadequately securing or balancing their cargo or load.
  • Not receiving adequate training or licensing.
  • Driving drowsy, especially after working long hours or at night.
  • Speeding, in an attempt to meet strict work schedules.
  • Failing to maintain their truck or trailer.

Drivers just driving next to 18 wheelers can put themselves in harms way or raise the chance of on accident by:

  • Driving in the blind spots of large trucks and big rigs.
  • Making a left turn in front of an oncoming truck at a crossroad or intersection.
  • Changing lanes too quickly in front of a truck.
  • Merging onto a highway in front of a truck.
  • Unsafely passing a truck or failing to signal before passing.
  • Failing to change speed accordingly when a truck merges or gets in front of a vehicle.

Truck wrecks are often caused by defective equipment, brake failure, or other problems within the vehicle as well.

Prevention of Big Rig Wrecks

It is our Firm’s belief that many of these truck accidents can be prevented

Truck drivers:

  • Keep your distance. Never follow another vehicle too closely. Trucks take a much longer time to stop than traditional passenger vehicles. If the truck in front of you is forced to stop quickly, you could rear-end them.
  • Maintain your truck. Ensure your vehicle is properly inspected and in working order before each and every trip. Additionally, make sure any and all cargo is securely fastened and balanced in your trailer.
  • Never drive drowsy. Always adhere to the rules of service regulations and never push yourself just to meet deadlines. If you’re feeling tired, pull over to the side of the road and take a nap before continuing on.
  • Be aware of your blind spots. Be aware of where cars are around you at all times, especially when preparing to change lanes or pass another vehicle.
Drivers of Nearby Vehicles:
  • Never cut off a truck, and be careful when merging in front of one on a highway.
  • If you see an unsafe truck driver, call the number listed on their truck to report the behavior.
  • Steer clear of trucks that are turning. Big rigs have a large turn radius and have to swing wide before making a turn; if you’re too close, your vehicle may be right in the truck’s path.
  • Avoid driving along the sides of trucks or directly behind them; these are the driver’s blind spots. If you are forced to drive in these areas, make sure you signal first, and that you make efforts to change lanes as soon as possible.

Were you recently injured in a truck wreck? You could be due compensation. Call Carabin Shaw, day or night, we can help!

Client Reviews
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We are very glad we called Carabin Shaw after our accident. We now recommend them to everyone. - Griselda S.
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You want Carabin Shaw on your side after an accident. They were excellent. - Valerie S.
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In our opinion, no one is better, Carabin Shaw is the Law Firm you want on your side after an accident. - Amanda G.
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The attorneys and staff went out of their way to help us after our accident. Thank you Carabin Shaw. - Melinda F.
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We did our research after our accident and chose Carabin Shaw. They were great. Highly recommend. Joel Y.
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