Jackknife Accidents Pose Serious Threats to Motorists
I’m Ed Smith, a Fresno truck accident lawyer. Nearly every month, big rigs jackknife on California freeways causing serious injuries and traffic nightmares. Since these types of accidents put everyone at risk for incurring fatal injuries, it’s important to review the different steps that can be taken to prevent such events.
Ways Truck Drivers Can Try to Prevent Jackknife Accidents
Truck drivers must develop good braking skills. Drivers must be trained to constantly bear in mind changing weather conditions and the current weight of their trucks. Trucks that weigh less are most frequently involved in jackknife accidents since brakes are designed for heavier loads. When wet weather unfolds, truckers must recall how hydroplaning can increase the chances of big rig collisions. In addition, braking is always safest when the load being carried is properly distributed or balanced inside. Installing anti-lock brakes and properly maintaining them can help. These types of brakes will often prevent truck wheels from locking up. Tire pressures should be checked regularly. If one tire is going flat or most tires are either over-inflated or under-inflated, a jackknife accident is much more likely to occur.
Safe Driving Skills
All truckers, especially those driving big rigs, should master safe turns. It is crucial that they learn how to prevent a tractor and a trailer from folding too sharply into one another. All big rig drivers must also learn how to properly back up their trucks. Some experts suggest that drivers place one hand at the bottom of their steering wheel as they turn around to see where they are going and then move their lower hand in the direction the trailer needs to go. (All such tips should be fully discussed with professional truck driving trainers before using them). They must maintain the proper speed. Whenever a big rig is traveling too fast, difficult turns and other maneuvers become much harder — if not impossible.
Other Drivers Should Pay Careful Attention When Driving Near Big Rigs
Drivers in motor vehicles are reminded to drive cautiously when traveling alongside big rigs. Motorists should exercise the following safety tips while driving on the roadway:
- Never tailgate a big rig. Also, keep in mind that you will often be driving in one of the truck driver’s blind spots;
- Exercise great caution when trying to pass one of these vehicles. It can be very dangerous to try and gain enough speed to pass a big rig – especially when there are unexpected curves in the road ahead;
- When you see a big rig start to skid – immediately make a defensive driving maneuver. Stated simply, do whatever you can to safely move out of the way – without endangering yourself or other vehicles nearby;
- If you see a big rig driving carelessly or unable to stay in its lane, pull over soon and call authorities. Find a safe place to stop and call 9-1-1. Be ready to supply a full description of the truck and its license plate number (and issuing state). You can save many lives by behaving this responsibly.
If you have been seriously injured in a big rig or other truck accident, contact an experienced Fresno truck accident lawyer as soon are you are able. Remember to seek immediate medical attention following an accident, even if you think your injuries are minor. An experienced attorney will investigate all the facts and then seek the maximum compensation available to you.
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Fresno Truck Accident Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a Fresno truck accident lawyer. Truck accidents oftentimes result in devastating, life-altering outcomes. If you or someone you love has been severely injured in an accident involving a large commercial truck, please contact me at (559) 377-7676 or toll-free at (800) 404-5400 for free, friendly advice.
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