The Number of Truck Accidents are on the Rise Across the Nation

In This Months You Should Know Newsletter…

After reaching an historic low in 2009, deaths and injuries from truck accidents are on the rise. Why the turn for the worse? According to a startling report from the American Association for Justice, lax practices are forcing a growing number of unsafe trucks on the road, which are often driven by overworked, underpaid and poorly trained drivers.

Tips for Avoiding Car-Truck Accidents

• Know that large trucks maneuver differently from cars and be extra-cautious as you approach.
• One-third of all crashes between large trucks and cars involve blind spots. If you can’t see a truck’s side mirrors, the truck driver can’t see you.
• Do not pass a truck on the right while the truck is turning right. The rear wheels follow a shorter path than the front wheels, so trucks must swing wide to the left to safely negotiate right turns.
• Large vehicles require a much longer distance to stop than cars. Cutting in front of a truck or bus could result in a serious or fatal accident.
• To properly pass a large truck or bus on the highway, accelerate slightly and maintain a consistent speed. Wait until you can see the entire cab in your rearview mirror before you signal and pull in.
• If a truck appears to be starting a left turn, check which way the driver is signaling before passing on the right.
• Give trucks at least four to six seconds of space in wet conditions and at highway speeds.
• If you witness unsafe driving, report it to the authorities.