Big rigs are a common sight along Georgia highways. They fill the truck stops and travel to all corners of the state. Often viewed as the backbone of a thriving economy, semi-trucks carry everything from produce and tires to clothing and fertilizer. As cooler temperatures settle in, so too does inclement weather. At Howell Law Firm, PC, we often represent clients injured in a collision with a semi-truck.
Due to their size and load, tractor-trailer trucks can weigh 20 to 30 times more than the average passenger vehicle. When visibility is poor and road conditions treacherous, controlling the rig is challenging. According to Smart Trucking, professional drivers implement preventative safety techniques to combat slippery roads. These measures may appear careless or hesitant to those unfamiliar with hauling heavy loads.
- Reducing speed – Driving slowly helps the driver maintain control of his or her rig. It also may buy them more time to respond to tires unexpectedly sliding on the pavement.
- Driving with hazards blinking – Stopping on the shoulder may not be the safest option in blinding snow or driving rain. The goal is to make it to an area safe to pull over. The flashing lights help other drivers see them from greater distances and lets them know that they are moving slowly.
- Traveling separately – Professional drivers understand that they cannot stop quickly on slippery roads. By increasing the distance between themselves and other vehicles, they may prevent a collision.
Driving in bad weather is not always avoidable. However, it carries increased risk. If you sustained injuries in a crash with a big rig, you might have grounds for a claim if the driver was negligent or lacked proper training. Visit our webpage for more information on this topic.