Semitrucks are large vehicles that are difficult to maneuver. All drivers who are driving these trucks must ensure that they are driving in a safe manner because failing to do so can lead to some very serious accidents.
One thing that everyone needs to remember is that these big rigs can’t stop on a dime. This is why vehicles shouldn’t cut off or try to dart in front of these semitrucks. A trucker might be placed in a position where he or she has to determine if rear-ending a vehicle or swerving with the possibility of slamming into other vehicles is the better option.
Drivers who are near semitrucks should remember to stay out of the “no zone” because if you are in this area on the side of the trailer, the back of the trailer or the front of the truck, the trucker can’t see you and won’t be able to take evasive action if he or she is going to hit your vehicle.
Semitrucks need a large berth when they are turning. Oftentimes, they need to swing left a bit to turn right. This is one reason why you shouldn’t try to rush when you are driving near 18-wheelers.
If you are driving safely and are still struck by a semitruck, you might decide to seek compensation. You need to look into the factors of the accident to determine who needs to be held liable for the damages. One thing to think about is that if you were struck by the semi when another vehicle cut the truck off, you might need to turn to that motorist for compensation.
Source: Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, “Tips for Driving Safely Around Large Trucks or Buses,” accessed Sep. 28, 2017