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Email UsBig trucks aren’t just like other vehicles on the road. Unlike car drivers, truck drivers are professionals, trained specifically in the art of driving a big rig. To avoid truck accidents, truckers receive special training authorized by the United States Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Truckers want you to know these common training tips, to help avoid truck accidents.
Avoid Truck Accidents by Understanding Driving Conditions
The speed limit provides a clear indication of the maximum speed for vehicles on the roadway. However, the speed limit is not the last word on the appropriate speed. Drivers are admonished to drive at speeds that are reasonable for the conditions in hand. Truck drivers receive training, for example, to mind road conditions when evaluating the appropriate speed. For example, the following conditions may impact speed limits:
- wet roadways;
- reduced visibility conditions, such as snow, rain, or fog;
- construction zones;
- curves;
- uneven roadways;
- intersections;
- heavy traffic; and
- gravel road.
23% of large truck crashes occur when a large truck is driving too fast for conditions. In order to avoid this, truckers must take precautions
Expect Reduced Speed in Adverse Road Conditions to Avoid Truck Accidents
Truckers are supposed to adjust their speed to match weather conditions, visibility, traffic conditions, and road conditions. Not only is excessive speed a major cause of fatal crashes, studies show that higher speeds result in more severe crashes with more serious injuries. 25% of speeding related large truck fatalities happen during adverse weather conditions. Consequently, truck drivers are encouraged to reduce their speed by one third on wet roads. On roads that are snow packed, drivers are taught to reduce their speed by one half.
Expect Lower Speed on Curves
Did you know that posted speed limits for curves are intended for passenger vehicles? Large trucks, have different rules. Large trucks should reduce their speed even further than automobiles when entering into a curve. Studies show, based on the high center of gravity of trucks, rollovers are more likely if truck drivers enter sharp curves driving the posted speed limit. 40% of speed related fatalities happen in curves. Additionally, braking while already in a curve can result in trucks wheels locking up. This can cause the vehicle to skid
Expect Truckers Will Reduce Speed Prior to Entering an Exit or Entrance Ramp
Truck drivers are admonished to enter exit and entrance ramps at a safe speed, which may be below the posted speed limit. When a driver misjudges the sharpness of the ramp curve and enters the ramp at excessive speed, truck rollovers are more likely. Just as with entering the curve, the posted speed limit on exit and entrance ramps generally is for automobiles. A safe speed for large trucks may be significantly lower than the posted speed.
Understanding Truck Driver’s Safety Maneuvers Can Help Avoid Truck Accidents
Understanding the safety maneuvers truck drivers employ helps avoid truck accidents. Due to their size and weight, truck accidents can cause significant damage to property and persons. Be safe! Don’t expect trucks to go too fast for conditions, although negligent truck drivers often do just that.
Hurt in a Truck Accident?
If you have been hurt in a truck accident, you may be entitled to compensation for all of your harms and losses, any injuries you may have suffered, and any damages to your car.Contact the experienced truck accident attorneys at Rosner Law Offices, P.C. We offer free consultations to determine if you have a case. Call us at (856) 502-1655 to schedule your consultation today.