How to Avoid Semi-Truck Accidents?

Did you know that Utah has a higher percentage of commercial vehicles on roads than almost any other state? Nearly 25% of all vehicles on Utah roads are large trucks. That means highways like I-15 see a mix of passenger cars and massive commercial trucks daily. 

You’ve to be careful when driving around semi-trucks. They’re huge, heavy, and hard to stop in a hurry, which means even a small mistake can lead to fatal accidents. As a team of semi-truck accident lawyers, we’ve dealt with many personal injury claims involving these rigs. 

Let’s talk about why semi-truck accidents are deadly and what you can do to prevent them. 

Why Semi-Truck Accidents Happen

A semi-truck, when fully loaded, can weigh up to 80,000 pounds. On the other hand, a family car often weighs 3,000 pounds or less. Because of their size and weight, trucks take longer to stop and are harder to control in bad weather or during sudden stops. 

When a semi-truck crash happens, it’s usually the people in the smaller vehicle who suffer the most. That’s why avoiding a semi-truck accident is all about smart, defensive driving.

1. Stay Out of Blind Spots

Semi-trucks have large blind spots on all four sides, especially directly behind and along both sides of the trailer. If you’re in these “no-zones,” the truck driver may not even know you’re there. 

This increases the risk of being sideswiped or forced off the road. The rule of thumb is that if you can’t see the truck’s mirrors, they can’t see you either. So, stay visible and avoid lingering in these zones.

2. Maintain Your Distance

Following too closely behind a semi is dangerous. If the truck stops suddenly, you could rear-end it. Or worse, slide underneath it. This kind of crash often leads to serious injuries or even death. Leave at least four to five seconds of space behind a truck at highway speeds. Extra space gives you time to react and brake safely.

3. Pass Safely

Always pass trucks on the left side, where their visibility is better. Pass quickly and don’t linger in the blind spot. Once you’re ahead, don’t cut in too soon since trucks need up to 200 yards to stop. Cutting in front of them too early can lead to a rear-end collision if the truck can’t slow down in time.

4. Avoid Sudden Stops

Slamming on your brakes in front of a truck is a recipe for disaster. Trucks take much longer to stop than cars. If you stop suddenly, the truck behind you may not be able to stop in time and could crash into you. Drive predictably and avoid sharp or unexpected stops around large trucks.

5. Watch for Wide Turns

Trucks make wide right turns and often swing left first. If you try to pass a turning truck on the right or squeeze between the truck and the curb, you can get trapped or crushed. Always give trucks extra space when they’re turning. If you see a turn signal, slow down and wait.

6. Be Alert in Bad Weather

Rain, snow, and ice make roads slippery and reduce a truck’s ability to stop or steer. Trucks already have longer stopping distances, and bad weather only makes it worse. Keep extra space between your car and a truck in poor weather conditions. Turn on your headlights and avoid sudden moves.

7. Don’t Drive Distracted

Texting, eating, or looking at your phone (even for a few seconds) can lead to a crash. Distraction around large trucks is risky because of their size and limited maneuverability. Keep your eyes on the road and both hands on the wheel when driving near semis. Your focus could save your life.

8. Respect Work Zones

Construction zones often narrow lanes and create sudden traffic shifts. Trucks can’t swerve or stop quickly in these areas. Stay alert, follow posted speed limits, and avoid rushing through. Give trucks more space than usual and be patient because they have less room to react in work zones.

9. Don’t Speed

Speeding cuts your reaction time and makes it harder to respond to trucks changing lanes or braking. Driving too fast near a semi-truck increases your chances of getting into a crash. Keep a safe, steady speed, especially while merging, passing, or driving downhill near trucks.

10. Use Headlights Wisely

In low light or bad weather, turn on your headlights so semi-truck drivers can see you sooner. Proper lighting also helps you see the road better and avoid debris or obstacles that could lead to a crash.

Even if you follow every safety rule, you can’t control how others drive. If you’re involved in a semi-truck accident, get medical help immediately. Next, report the accident to the police and speak with a competent semi-truck accident lawyer as soon as possible. This will help you recover the compensation you deserve. 

Why You Need a Semi-Truck Accident Lawyer

Truck accident cases involve more than just figuring out who caused the crash. You’re going up against large trucking companies with legal teams and deep pockets. These companies follow federal and state regulations that don’t apply to everyday drivers, which makes things more complicated. 

A skilled semi-truck accident lawyer knows how to handle these details and fight for your full compensation. Here’s what the right lawyer can do for you:

1. Investigate the Crash Fully

A good lawyer who handles semi-truck accident cases won’t just look at the police report. They’ll dig into driver logs, black box data, and truck maintenance records to find out what caused the crash. Maybe the driver was speeding, driving too many hours, or the brakes were faulty. These details can turn a weak case into a strong one.

2. Deal with Aggressive Insurance Companies

Trucking companies have insurance teams that do everything they can to pay you less. They may pressure you to settle fast or try to blame you. A semi-truck accident law firm knows these tactics and won’t let them take advantage of you. Your lawyer will handle negotiations.

3. Get a Semi-Truck Accident Settlement You Deserve

Injuries from truck crashes are often severe, and the bills add up fast. A skilled lawyer will make sure your semi-truck accident settlement includes medical costs, lost wages, long-term care, and pain and suffering. Without a lawyer, you risk walking away with far less than you deserve.

4. Hold the Trucking Company Accountable

If the driver was overworked or the company skipped safety checks, your lawyer will expose it. These violations can increase how much the company has to pay. In many cases, a professional semi-truck accident lawyer can prove the crash was preventable, and that can lead to a much higher payout than a basic insurance claim.

Final Thoughts

You can’t control how truck drivers behave, but you can protect yourself by driving safely, staying alert, and keeping your distance. If you get hurt in a crash, you deserve to have someone in your corner.

At Henriksen & Henriksen, we fight hard for Utah drivers. Our semi-truck accident lawyers have been helping Utah families since 1950. Call (801) 521-4145 or fill out our online form to get started.