Operating a semi-truck carrying 80,000 pounds or more over hundreds of thousands of miles each year is a gigantic responsibility. Truck drivers must follow strict rules and qualify for special commercial driver’s licenses (CDL) to help protect the safety of other motorists on the highway.

Because of the large size, weight difference, and the speed at impact, semi-truck accidents involving passenger vehicles often result in a larger number of catastrophic injuries and deaths. Even the most careful and skillful semi-truck drivers face higher risks of accidents. This is because of the challenges of driving large and heavy trucks on the highway with the many potential hazards involved on the highway. Unfortunately, there are semi-truck drivers who drive while distracted, sleep-deprived, or under the influence of alcohol or drugs, putting passenger-car motorists at greater risk on the road.

Remember these tips to help avoid semi-truck accidents on the highway and keep your family safe around big trucks.

Give Semi-Trucks Space on the Highway

The most important tip for avoiding semi-truck accidents is to simply give them, semi-trucks, extra space on the highway. Most accidents with semi-trucks happen when the driver of a passenger car fails to give semi-trucks enough space. Passenger cars must allow semi-trucks space to account for potential truck tire blowouts, wide turns to navigate intersections, and the blind spots that exist on every side of a semi-truck. Avoid aggressive driving on the road, especially when near a semi-truck.

Do Not Brake Too Quickly in Front of a Semi-Truck

Truckers cannot just stomp on their brakes to stop quickly. Never put a trucker in a position where they have to brake quickly: like cutting them off or pulling out in front of them. Forcing a truck to stop too quickly can lead to a rear-end collision or traffic pile up. If you must slow down in front of a semi-truck on the highway, slow down gradually. A semi-truck with a full load can take the distance of over three football fields to stop. If a semi-truck is following too closely behind you, move out of the way and let the truck pass you.

Do Not Tailgate a Semi-Truck on the Road

If you are unable to see the semi-truck driver’s mirrors while travelling behind him, you should assume that the truck driver is unable to see you. Do not tailgate the semi-truck in front of you. You may be unaware of heavy traffic or other issues in front of the semi-truck requiring him to brake quickly, you must be prepared to respond to a sudden stop at any moment in front of you. As you can guess, you are in danger any time you come close to a semi-truck and the driver cannot see your car. Keep a safe, four-car distance to help avoid drifting into their no zone area.

Avoid Distracted Driving on the Road

Do not drive distracted! Many drivers are putting others at risk on the road while they text or talk on their smart phones. The most important thing you can do to avoid accidents with semi-trucks or any other type of accident is to pay attention. Texting and dialing your cell phone can wait until you reach your destination.

Contact an Experienced Attorney if you are in an Accident Involving a Semi-Truck in the Greater Kansas City Missouri Area

If you have been in an accident with a semi-truck, you should absolutely hire an experienced attorney. Experienced attorneys, like KC Road Lawyer Chris Benjamin, can help you navigate the claims process, negotiate a fair settlement, and help you get compensation for any injuries or property damage. Contact KC Road Lawyers at 816-425-2420 for a free consultation to find out how we can help you. We will work with you and your family to recover the compensation you deserve from the semi-truck driver and the trucking company employing the negligent driver.