The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that an alarming number of traffic fatalities occur at night. While only 25% of car crashes occur at night, approximately 50% of traffic fatalities occur during this time. During the winter months it gets dark early, and these conditions can be particularly hazardous for motorists. Additionally, countless trucks have been added to the usual traffic, with more drivers delivering commercial goods due to the increase in online shopping during COVID-19 pandemic. It is important to avoid truck accidents anytime, but especially at night when they could be more deadly. The following are some helpful tips to avoid serious injuries in truck accidents at night.
Avoid Trucks’ Blind Spots
One of the most common factors that cause tractor-trailer accidents are blind spots, which are areas close to a large truck where a smaller passenger vehicle cannot be seen by the truck driver. Blind spots exist along the right front quarter as well as the left rear corner and directly behind the truck. If you cannot see the driver’s side-view mirror on a large truck, the odds are that you are in the vehicle’s blind spot. Motorists should do everything possible to avoid driving within these dangerous spots around larger vehicles.
Properly Navigate Right Turns
The rear of a vehicle is more likely to collide with the curb during a right turn. Large trucks require a greater distance to perform right turns. Consequently, motorists should avoid passing trucks on the right while approaching an intersection. This can reduce the danger of getting caught between a truck and the curb when the truck turns right.
Safely Pass Other Vehicles on the Road
Avoid passing behind a truck when the truck is backing up, because the truck’s driver might not be able to see you. When on the highway, only pass trucks on the left-hand side and maintain your speed. You should make sure to allow adequate space between your vehicle and the truck before switching lanes to drive directly in front of the truck because the larger vehicle requires a greater amount of space to slow down and come to a complete stop. Without ample space between you, your vehicle is at risk of a rear-end collision.
Rely on Your Mirrors
Motorists should make sure that all mirrors attached to a vehicle are properly positioned before driving. Drivers should always have some visibility of the left rear corner of a vehicle. It is similarly a good idea to make sure that your exterior mirrors are kept clean so they do not obscure your view. Remember, mirrors are the best ways motorists have to see everything that surrounds them.
Approach Oncoming Headlights With Caution
Motorists should do everything possible to avoid looking into the headlights of oncoming vehicles. Instead, adjust your rear-view mirror to minimize the glare. By looking directly into the lights of approaching vehicles, a driver may become momentarily distracted or even blinded and end up losing control of the vehicle.
Speak With an Experienced Car Crash Attorney
If you or a loved one has been injured in a late-night truck accident, you should not hesitate to speak with an experienced attorney. Contact House Law LLC today to schedule a free case evaluation.
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