An truck accident with a commercial truck can result in critical or even deadly injuries along with significant vehicle damage. That’s why it’s critical to use extreme caution when driving near these large trucks.

Below are some tactics to use on the road to help lower your chances of being involved in an accident with a commercial truck. If you or a loved one are harmed in a truck accident, keep reading to find out what Chalker Injury Law can do to help you.

How Can I Avoid Truck Accidents

Truck accidents can happen for a variety of reasons, including driver fatigue, distraction, and impairment. However, the size and weight of trucks also make them inherently more dangerous than other vehicles on the road. When a truck is involved in an accident, the consequences can be severe, due to the sheer size and weight of the vehicle.

Stay Alert and Focused While Driving

One of the biggest causes of truck accidents is driver fatigue. Truck drivers often work long hours and drive for extended periods of time, making it important for them to stay alert and focused. However, fatigue can affect anyone who is behind the wheel, regardless of their profession. To avoid truck accidents, it’s important for all drivers to get enough rest, take breaks when needed, and avoid driving when they’re tired.

Avoiding Distractions While Driving

Distracted driving is another major cause of truck accidents. This can include anything from texting and eating to changing the radio station or talking on the phone. To avoid truck accidents, it’s important for all drivers to limit their distractions while behind the wheel. Put your phone on silent, keep food and drinks out of reach, and avoid engaging in activities that take your attention away from the road.

Recognizing the Signs of Impairment

Impaired driving, whether due to drugs, alcohol, or prescription medications, is another leading cause of truck accidents. If you’re feeling drowsy, have trouble concentrating, or are feeling the effects of alcohol or drugs, it’s best to avoid driving altogether. If you’re taking prescription medication, be sure to talk to your doctor about how it might affect your ability to drive.

The Importance of Properly Maintaining Your Vehicle

In addition to avoiding distractions and staying alert, it’s important to properly maintain your vehicle. This includes making sure your tires are properly inflated, your brakes are in good working order, and your headlights and taillights are functioning properly. Regular vehicle maintenance can help reduce your risk of being involved in a truck accident.

Understanding Truck Blind Spots

Trucks have large blind spots, also known as “no-zones.” These are areas around the truck where the driver has limited visibility. To avoid truck accidents, it’s important to understand these blind spots and avoid driving in them. If you can’t see the truck driver in their side mirrors, they likely can’t see you.

Giving Trucks Enough Room on the Road

Trucks require more room to maneuver than other vehicles on the road. To avoid truck accidents, it’s important to give trucks enough room when passing or changing lanes. This can help ensure that the truck driver has enough time to react if necessary.

The Importance of Following Traffic Laws

Finally, it’s important to follow traffic laws and regulations. This includes obeying speed limits, stopping at stop signs and red lights, and yielding the right-of-way when necessary. By following traffic laws, you can reduce your risk of being involved in a truck accident.

Call a Georgia Truck Accident Lawyer If You’re Injured

If you or someone you love were in a truck accident, don’t wait to reach out to Atlanta personal injury law firm Chalker Injury Law today by calling (678) 319-9991 or toll-free at (800) 393-8595.