Driving alongside semi-trucks can be an intimidating and sometimes dangerous experience. These massive vehicles have several inherent challenges drivers should know about as they affect the road safety of all involved.
At Andy Citrin Injury Attorneys, if you get injured in a truck accident, our experienced Mobile truck accident lawyers are deeply committed to protecting your rights and best interests against the trucking companies’ insurers. We always fight for the full and fair compensation you deserve.
Contact us today for a free, no-risk consultation: 251-888-8888 Mobile, Alabama’s position as a major transportation hub for international trade means local drivers frequently encounter semi-trucks. Driving alongside big rigs and other commercial vehicles demands extra caution and awareness. It also requires an understanding of the unique operational characteristics of these massive vehicles, including when: Simply put, ignoring road safety around a semi-truck could put you, your passengers and others sharing the road in harm’s way. Commercial vehicles have significantly larger blind spots, require longer stopping distances and need more space for turning and maneuvering compared to passenger vehicles. Once you understand the major difference of these vehicles and adjust your driving accordingly, you can share the road with any big rig more safely. Here are six essential tips for sharing the road more safely around semi-trucks, big rigs and other commercial vehicles. Semi-trucks have four major blind spots, often called “no-zones”: The passenger-side blind spot is hazardous, extending across multiple lanes and covering most of the trailer’s length. Always remember that if you cannot see the truck driver in their driver side mirror, they cannot see you. Tailgating any vehicle is dangerous, but following too closely behind a semi-truck significantly increases your risk of an accident due to their inability to stop or react quickly. Follow these guidelines when driving behind a truck: Keeping a safe distance improves your visibility of road conditions and potential hazards while giving you more time to react if the truck stops suddenly.Top of Form The reason for this is simple, if the truck in front of you stops unexpectedly, the truck behind you will not have enough time and space to stop. If they collide into your vehicle, it will send your vehicle into the truck in front of you. That alone is catastrophic. However, you could also slide under the truck, which can result in fatal injuries. Try to ride a lane over from trucks, especially when there are multiple big rigs riding together. You may need to pass a semi-truck on Mobile highways, such as the I-10 and I-65. If you find yourself in that position, there are some key points to keep in mind to protect your safety, including: These steps help create a safer passing experience for everyone on Alabama’s roads. Mobile’s weather can change quickly, creating dangerous driving conditions. Semi-trucks pose extra risks during bad weather: In adverse weather, increase your following distance and avoid sudden movements or lane changes when trucks are near trucks. If conditions worsen, consider delaying your trip to guarantee your safety. Semi-trucks need more space to make turns, especially right turns. The size of these vehicles means they often need to maneuver a little left before they can turn right, so it is important to give them plenty of space. Follow these guidelines to navigate safely around them: By staying alert, taking precautions, and respecting a truck’s turning requirements, you can help prevent accidents and contribute to safer, more efficient traffic flow. While this advice applies to all driving, it is especially critical when traveling near semi-trucks. Staying focused allows you to: Always prioritize safety and remain alert while driving in Mobile, Alabama. Practicing defensive driving tips helps protect you, truck drivers and other motorists sharing the road. If you have questions or need assistance after a semi-truck accident, do not hesitate to contact our highly qualified legal team. At Andy Citrin Injury Attorneys, we have extensive experience and have a proven history of success – we have recovered over $100 million in compensation for our clients. Our firm has extensive experience managing some of the toughest cases, including truck accident claims, and we are here to support you during this challenging time. There are no upfront costs or fees to pay. Proven Results – Call Our Winning Legal Team Today: 251-888-8888 Andy is the owner and CEO of Citrin Law Firm, P.C. He founded the firm in 1995 with the goal of helping injured people put their lives back together. His passion for protecting injured people has only grown since he opened the doors of Andy Citrin Injury Attorneys, and he has a history of winning numerous multimillion-dollar verdicts and settlements for his clients.Why Mobile Drivers Need To Know How To Drive Safely Around Big Rigs
1. What Six Tips Should Drivers Know When Sharing the Road With Semi-Trucks?
2. Get to Know the Four “No Zones” – A Big Rig’s Major Blind Spots
3. Avoid Tailgating and Maintain a Safe Distance
4. Avoid Traveling in Between Multiple Big Rigs
5. How Can I Pass a Semi-Truck Safely and Efficiently?
6. Exercise Extra Caution in Bad Weather
7. Stay Alert for Wide Turns
8. Remain Focused and Drive Defensively
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