The trucking industry is a necessary part of our economy, transporting goods and products to states nationwide. Even though sharing the highways with large trucks like big rigs and semi-trucks is commonplace, it can still be nerve-wracking. Knowing how to share the road with a large truck in Utah can help you avoid a truck accident and increase your confidence in driving alongside them.
If you have been injured in a Utah truck accident due to someone else’s negligence, speak to an experienced lawyer at Feller & Wendt for a comprehensive assessment of your case. We understand the complexities of Utah trucking laws and regulations to fight for the compensation you deserve for damages incurred in your Utah truck accident.
Tips for Sharing the Road With Large Trucks in Utah
Drivers on the road are responsible for providing a standard duty of care. When driving next to large trucks, this is especially important due to their increased blind spot radius, slower brake system, and oftentimes heavy cargo.
The following are tips for sharing the road with large trucks to better avoid accidents and injuries:
1. Always Drive Defensively
Even if you are skilled and comfortable behind the wheel, it is always a best practice to drive defensively rather than offensively. Staying alert and reacting to traffic proactively can save you from an accident with a large truck. Due to their large weight and monumental size compared to passenger cars, they have slower reaction times, which means you should always be a step ahead. Pay special attention to things like vehicle locations, weather, road conditions, and traffic flow when sharing the road with others, especially big trucks.
2. Follow at a Safe Distance
Following too closely to a large truck like a semi can increase your chances of a rear-end accident in the event of a sudden stop, rollover, or tire blowout. When sharing the road with a large truck, allow plenty of room in case of an emergency, swerving, or merging. The most optimal amount of following distance is around four seconds.
3. Consider Blind Spots
Large trucks have larger blind spots than passenger cars. If possible, when sharing the road with a semi or other large truck, avoid the right side of the vehicle. Blind spots on the right side can extend as far as three lanes, and the truck driver may not be aware that you are there. A good rule of thumb is if you can see the truck driver in the mirror, then they can see you.
4. Always Pass Quickly
Due to the increased blind spot radius on large trucks, it is best to always pass quickly when needed. To increase safety, try to pass closest to the shoulder and avoid lingering.
5. Avoid Cutting Off a Big Truck
Avoid cutting off a large truck due to its slower stopping speed. Ensure that you can clearly see the entirety of the front-end of the truck in your rear-view before merging in front of it. This will help prevent rear-end collisions.
6. Signal Before Changing Lanes
Signal before any sudden changes. Large trucks have a slower reaction time to unexpected merging, changing lanes, or passing.
Damages Recoverable in a Utah Truck Accident
If you have been injured in a Utah truck accident due to another driver’s negligence, you may be able to recover compensation due to losses sustained. Injuries may be severe depending on the weight and size of the large truck. You may be able to recover the following damages:
- Medical expenses
- Specialized equipment
- Rehabilitation
- Lost wages
- Lost future earning capacity
- Disability or disfigurement
- Emotional damages
If you have been injured in a Utah truck accident due to someone else’s negligence, you shouldn’t have to pay for medical expenses and other losses due to your accident. We fight for the compensation you deserve so you can focus on recovery.
Speak to a Skilled Utah Truck Accident Lawyer at Feller & Wendt
If you have been injured in a Utah large truck accident, you may be overwhelmed with emotional, physical, and financial hardships following the accident. Speak to an experienced Utah truck accident lawyer at Feller & Wendt for seasoned guidance on what to do next. We fight for the justice and fair compensation you deserve for damages caused by someone else’s actions.
At Feller & Wendt, we are seasoned Utah truck accident lawyers that have helped clients recover the compensation they are rightfully owed due to someone else’s negligence with a 95% success rate. Call us today for a complimentary consultation at (801) 499-5060 or fill out our contact form.
