Safety Tips for Driving Near 18-Wheelers in Houston Tx

Most likely at some point, you will find yourself stuck in the middle of the blindspot of a semi-truck at least once. Drivers need to be aware of these areas when traveling near commercial vehicles. 

An 18-wheeler has three primary blindspots. These include the two lanes to the right of the vehicle and one lane to the left. Another blind spot is located about 20 feet in front of the truck, with another extending about 30 feet behind. With some enclosed trailers, there will also be a blindspot warning posted on the door of the trailer to warn drivers of the fact that if the driver cannot see the side mirrors of the semi, then the trucker will not be able to see them, either. 

Catastrophic trucking accidents are a reality for many Texas residents, and injured parties need the help of a trusted trucking injury attorney in Katy in order to recover deserved compensation. 

Avoiding Truck Blindspots

It can be dangerous to drive in front of a semi-truck for many reasons. One is that many drivers are unaware that these vehicles require almost 40% more time to come to a full stop than a passenger car. When entering a lane ahead of a commercial truck, be sure to make room between you and an 18-wheeler. 

Driving Near a Semi-Truck

Drivers in the United States are nearly certain to find themselves driving next to a semi-truck somewhere down the line. Both sides of the 18-wheeler have blind spots that need to be considered. However, the blind spot to the left of the truck is much smaller than the blind spot on the right side. That means you should try to pass on the left-hand side when making your way past a semi-truck. 

Closing Safety Tips

Here are some tips our Houston personal injury lawyers want you to consider to keep you and your loved ones safe when traveling near an 18-wheeler: 

• Never cut off a semi-truck
• To signal the 18-wheeler that it is safe to enter your lane, flash your high beams. 
• Never tailgate commercial vehicles because it can be very risky. Your field of vision is limited when driving close behind a large truck. If the truck driver applies their brakes, you may be unable to stop in time to avoid an accident. 
• Never drive aggressively. The size and weight of a semi-truck contribute to their limited mobility, similar to a coupe or a sedan. It also contributes to their increased braking distance if they are forced to react to a particularly reckless driver. 

Trucking Accidents in Katy Tx

In most cases, commercial truck accident victims in Texas are injured by reckless or negligent drivers, and the responsible party can be made to cover the damages resulting from the collision. For over a decade, Connolly Law has helped 18-wheeler accident victims obtain the compensation they deserve. Our qualified Houston trucking injury attorneys will work tirelessly to ensure that your rights are protected under the law. Contact our offices today at 877-CONNLAW to discuss your case today.