Tampa Tractor Trailer & Commercial Truck Accident Attorneys

The U.S. trucking industry is one of the largest in the world, with approximately 15.5 million trucks operating in the country.  Given the large number of trucks on the road and the expansive distances traveled by the trucks, trucking hazards are an every-day risk for other drivers on the road.  When driving behind a large, slow-moving truck, it may seem easiest to speed up and quickly move past the truck. But knowing how to do so can mean life or death.  More than 250,000 accidents between passenger cars and semi trucks happen each year. 

Large Trucks

Here are some tips about how to share the road safely with large trucks and commercial vehicles:

Trucks Have Blind Spots

Every large truck has four large blind spots or “no zones”—the front, back, and both sides of the truck. The biggest blind spot for these trucks is on the right side.  However, a driver in any of these four zones is not visible to the truck driver. As a rule of thumb: If you cannot see the driver’s mirrors, the driver cannot see you!

Maintain a Safe Distance

It is important to maintain a safe distance away from the sides of the truck and not to follow a truck too closely. Large trucks often weigh 10 to 30 times more than standard passenger vehicles; thus, it is much more difficult for a truck to make a quick stop.  Generally, a fully loaded semi truck or tractor trailer that weighs about 80,000 pounds and travels approximately 65 mph would take almost the length of two football fields to stop.  Accordingly, in anticipation of any sudden stops, always be sure to leave enough stopping distance between your vehicle and the large commercial truck.

In addition to issues involving falling debris, it is not uncommon for trucks to sustain occasional tire blowouts from carrying heavy weight. By maintaining a safe distance, you allow time to avoid hitting the truck and potentially rolling under it.

Be Aware

Use respect and common sense when driving on the roadway. Always drive responsibly, especially when traveling near a large truck.  Follow the rules of road by maintaining focus, using proper signals, wearing your seat belt, and by being aware of all that is happening on the road.  Together, we can all contribute to keeping the roads safe.

Capaz Law Firm – Contact Experienced Tampa Truck Accident Injury Lawyers

No matter how careful you are, a reckless truck driver can still be the cause of a devastating crash.  If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident with a large truck, semi tractor trailer, or other commercial vehicle, contact the Capaz Law Firm at 813-440-2700 to speak with an experienced Tampa truck accident lawyer. Our Tampa injury accident attorneys are aggressive and dedicated to helping victims of truck accidents hold all responsible parties accountable for their negligent actions.