A collision between two or more automobiles can inflict serious injury and even death. However, large semi-trucks present particular risks that both truck drivers and other motorists should be aware of.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration explains how different aspects of a big truck can present dangers to surrounding vehicles on the road.
Blind spots
Large trucks have bigger blind spots than other vehicles. Thanks to developing safety technologies, more trucks possess motion detectors and cameras to detect vehicles in a blind spot. However, drivers should not count on a truck having these devices and avoid truck blind spots if possible.
Higher center of gravity
Trucks that carry loads often use tall trailers to hold the cargo. However, these trailers can put a truck at risk of rolling over if the truck driver makes a sharp turn. Even if the turning speed is appropriate for a small vehicle like a car, a trucker must consider that the truck has a higher gravity center and make slower turns.
The higher center of gravity of a truck can also help generate wind gusts. The surface of the trailer might catch nearby winds and create a gust that affects smaller vehicles driving nearby. In addition, high winds may push against the truck and cause it to sway in its lane, increasing the chances of a collision.
Longer stopping distance
Because of its size and weight, a big truck requires a greater length to come to a stop, generally at a length of two football fields. While motorists should be cautious when approaching a truck, truck drivers must also take stopping distance into account and drive more cautiously.
While you may avoid a collision with a big truck thanks to your own vigilance, the negligence of a trucker could still involve you in an accident. If so, you might have an entitlement to compensation for damages.