St. George Trucking Safety
It doesn’t matter if you’re commuting locally or driving long distance, you’re likely to come across tractor trailers or semi-trucks. The trucking industry is a vast network of trade and efficiency in the United States. Now certain safety regulations and features have been implemented to keep drivers safe and their rigs maintained, but there are still many things passenger vehicles should be mindful of when sharing the road.
Road Safety
What Makes Tractor-Trailers So Dangerous?
The size of the vehicle makes operating a semi-truck dangerous, from the volume of cargo to the sheer size of the rig, there is a lot of force and weight involved. The federal government has regulated the max size of trailers with a length between 40-53 feet. Be mindful some states have allowed up to 59 feet trailers, so if you’re doing any interstate traveling, be aware that some of trucks may seem longer, because they are. The width of a semi-trailer is 8.5 feet. In Utah the maximum total vehicle weight for a semi-truck is 80,000lbs. That is nearly 13-30x larger than standard passenger vehicles. This means that tractor trailers are at an increased risk of crashes due to their size and weight.
5 Safety Practices for sharing the road with tractor-trailers
Avoid Blind Spots
Due to the size of the semi-trucks, it’s difficult for operators to see other drivers as their blind spots are larger. Their blind spots are in the front, behind and sides of the rig. It’s best for drivers not to travel too closely to the front or rear of a truck, particularly if you are traveling at high speed. Don’t stay in a blind spot longer than necessary. Avoid merging into a blind spot.
Give Distance
Trucks need a lot of time to speed up, slow down, and stop, give it to them. Don’t tailgate or brake check, it only creates a dangerous situation. Trucks also need distance and space to make turns. Trucks need to go wide to make their turns. If you stop too close you could risk a collision.
Pass Safely
Don’t pass unless you can see the driver in your sideview mirror. Always use signals when transitioning lanes to warn other vehicles of your intentions. Avoid passing a semi-truck when going downhill. Accelerate gradually and intentionally.
Remove Distractions
All vehicle operators need to limit and reduce the number of distractions in their car so they can focus on driving. Be aware of your surroundings, speed, distance and stay off your cell phone.
Stay Sober
Don’t operate any vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This impairs your decision-making and judgment.
Why You Need A Tractor-Trailer Injury Attorney
Sadly accidents happen. And semi-truck accidents can be particularly devastating. An experienced personal injury attorney is knowledgeable of the trucking laws in Utah. At McMullin Injury Law our attorneys know how the insurance and investigative processes work when trucking accidents occur. So let our attorneys go to work for you, so you can focus on recovery.
Give Us A Call!
You’ll be immediately connected to an attorney. We’re happy to walk you through all your options and answer all your questions for free so that you can make informed decisions about what is best for you and your family.