If you frequently travel through Bedford, Philadelphia or Chambersburg, you understand what it’s like to navigate busy, often chaotic roadways. Along with drunk drivers, one of the greatest menaces on the road is a negligent tractor-trailer driver. There’s simply no way of knowing when one of these massive vehicles is going to cut you off or barrel toward the rear of your car as it speeds downhill behind you.
Intersections are some of the most dangerous places on the road. Some are controlled by road signs and/or traffic lights, while others are not. Catastrophic injuries and complete devastation are often the result of tractor-trailer collisions that occur at crossroads. There are several things you can do to possibly avoid truck accidents, some of which are listed below:
- Forget about using your headlights to signal that you are changing lanes. Since flashing headlights is not a universal traffic sign, it’s typically best to avoid using it to inform a nearby trucker you’re about to change lanes. He or she may think you’re indicating that you want the truck to move over, at which point, a serious accident can occur.
- Even though there may be a gap between the truck and the curb as the truck navigates a right hand turn, trying to squeeze your vehicle through to avoid delays is typically not the best decision.
- Do you know where a trucker’s blind spots are? Basically, if you can’t see the truck driver in the driver’s side view mirror, he or she cannot see you either.
- Although all motorists are obligated to remain alert and attentive behind their wheels, it’s best to be at the top of your driving game when tractor-trailers are nearby.
Truck drivers often get fatigued before they reach their destinations. If you notice a driver swerving or driving in an erratic manner, you may be able to avoid a serious collision if you remember the tips above. Sometimes, it’s safe to pull over and report a reckless driver to authorities. Otherwise, doing so places you at further risk.
The law protects you if you’re injured in a crash with a negligent tractor-trailer driver. Anyone in your position may file a personal injury lawsuit in a civil court to seek justice and restitution for suffering endured. You can inquire further regarding such topics by requesting a meeting with an experienced Pennsylvania injury lawyer.