We are surrounded by massive trucks and 18-wheelers on a daily basis and the reality is they’re likely the most dangerous thing we interact with on a regular basis. The chances of surviving after an 18-wheeler accident are extremely rare. Even worse than that, being a truck driver is considered one of the deadliest jobs in the United States with 700+ deaths per year.
We’re here to break down the most common reasons for 18-wheeler accidents so you can understand why these beasts on the road are involved in so many accidents along with some tips to prevent a terrifying fate.
- Absurd Schedules — Truck drivers are often expected to reach certain destinations on a very strict schedule with little time to rest. To compensate for this truck drivers spend additional time on the road to make up for slow speeds and unforeseen traffic. Driving under fatigue is extremely dangerous for not only yourself, but for every driver, passenger, child, pedestrian on or near the road.
- Jackknifing — Jackknifing is when the trailer of the 18-wheeler forcefully glides forward to either the left or the right of the 18-wheeler’s tractor unit/truck. While there are mechanisms in place to prevent jackknifing, if it occurs, the truck loses all control and a crash is almost always inevitable.
- Cars Cutting 18-Wheelers on the Road — Next time you try to cut an 18-wheeler on the road, it is important to know: 18-wheelers and larger vehicles cannot stop as quickly or effectively as smaller vehicles, sedans and SUVs. if you see another vehicle on the road aiming to cut off an 18-wheeler, it may be a smart move to steer clear from them as safely as you can.
One final tip we have is to avoid driving to the side of trucks for long periods of time. That said, we do not recommend swerving or speeding up or significantly slowing down on the highway to avoid this. Trucks are often taller than they are wide, which makes them prime candidates for destabilizing if they hit potholes, burst a tire or tires or if they swerve or slip on ice.
If you or someone you know has been involved in an 18-wheeler accident, contact The Parrish Law Firm immediately. We can help you fight corporate giants, insurances companies and more for fair settlements. Contact us here or at (571) 229 – 1800.
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