Truck Accidents in Utah: The Do’s and Don’ts of Avoiding Them
When you drive a semi-truck, every time you get on the road is riskier than when you drive another type of vehicle. That’s because truck accidents involving semis are more common and more likely to be fatal for one or both drivers.
However, with the right caution and precautions, it doesn’t have to be that way. You can avoid becoming the victim of or contributing to a truck accident by following this advice from the experts.
Stay alert
As a truck driver, you need to be especially alert at all times. You’re responsible for your own safety as well as the safety of all the other drivers on the road. In fact, truckers have a higher rate of drowsy driving than the general public.
That’s why you need to pay extra attention to your own level of alertness. If you start to feel drowsy, find a safe place to stop and take a break. However, you should also stay alert when an accident did happen. Make sure you contact wrongful death truck accident lawyers in Utah as soon as possible so you an focus on your recovery.
Don’t drive tired or after dark
There’s no way to know how much any other driver is affected by fatigue, so you need to avoid driving yourself when you’re tired. And don’t let your fellow drivers on the road drive while overly tired, either. Don’t drive at night if you can avoid it. At least half of all truck accidents occur during the hours of darkness. If you absolutely have to drive at night, don’t drive more than 10 hours a day.
Check your equipment
Before you take to the road, check your truck and all its equipment. Make sure your brakes, tires, lights and other equipment are in good repair and working properly. Check your tires for tread wear and make sure they have the right amount of pressure. If they don’t, you’re at increased risk of an accident. Trust your equipment, but don’t trust other drivers. Always expect other drivers to make mistakes and be on the lookout for those who may be endangering you or your truck.
Be especially careful with these vehicles
Trucks must travel slower than other types of vehicles. If you see a car or another type of vehicle passing you, be prepared for it to pull back in front of you. Cars driving behind you may be blinded by their own headlights or blinded by your taillights. Don’t make sudden changes in speed or direction. And when you’re making a turn, slow down and put on your turn signal to let other drivers know what you plan to do.
Drive defensively
Because of your size and the potential danger, you pose to others on the road, you need to drive defensively. Make sure you’re always looking out for other drivers and that they know you’re there. You’re most at risk when you’re driving beside other vehicles. So, avoid riding beside other vehicles whenever possible. If you have to drive beside another vehicle, put plenty of space between you and it.
Conclusion
Truck accidents are more likely than other types of accidents. But by following these tips and precautions, you can reduce your risk of being involved in one of these accidents. Keep in mind that truck drivers are out there driving too.
You need to be careful to avoid putting them in danger. You also need to be careful of letting them put you in danger. To keep from being involved in a truck accident, you need to be alert, avoid driving tiredly or at night, and drive defensively.
