Taking a road trip anytime soon?
Driving on the open road is one of life’s true joys. However…
Sharing the road with big rigs and tractor trailers is dangerous. These vehicles pose serious risks that every traveler should understand. Highway safety is crucial to protecting yourself and your legal rights after a crash.
Luckily,
Arming yourself with knowledge and taking simple precautions can help you avoid a serious collision altogether.
You’re about to discover
- Why Highway Safety Should Be Your Top Concern
- Biggest Risks When Driving On The Road Today
- Safety Tips You Need For Every Road Trip
- Steps To Take If You’re In A Truck Accident
Why Highway Safety Should Be Your Top Concern
Road safety isn’t just common sense and following laws…
You should also be aware of the actual dangers you face on the road every day. Truck-related fatalities have been on the rise in recent years. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety reports that 4,354 fatalities occurred in 2023 due to large trucks.
Tragically,
Most of those deaths were passengers in other vehicles. The Insurance Institute found that only 35% of deaths were truck drivers. That means that 65% of fatalities were people riding in cars and trucks just like you.
If you were injured in an accident with a commercial truck driver, you could be left with trucking injury claims that are overwhelming. Your best option is to contact a Truck Accident Attorney in Athens who knows how to protect your rights and recover maximum compensation.
So why are passenger vehicles more likely to be involved in a deadly accident?
Size matters when you’re talking about vehicle collisions. A loaded tractor-trailer can weigh up to 80,000 pounds. Your family vehicle might only weigh 4,000 pounds. When those two collide, your car doesn’t stand a chance.
Biggest Risks When Driving On The Road Today
Okay, but what are you really at risk for?
Let’s take a look at the dangers you face on road trips so you know what to avoid.
Large Truck Fatalities Are On The Rise
This is not good news for highway safety…
Despite increased awareness, fatal truck accidents are creeping higher each year. Fatal crashes involving large trucks have risen nearly 50% over the last decade.
As more commercial vehicles hit the road, the chances of encountering a problem increase. Human error and vehicle malfunctions cause most crashes.
Some of the leading causes of truck accidents include:
- Driver fatigue
- Distracted driving
- Vehicle maintenance failures
- Speeding/aggressive driving behaviors
- Inclement weather
Trucks with maintenance issues are a particular problem on the roads. One study showed that almost 29% of truck accidents were caused by vehicle maintenance problems. That means nearly one in three accidents could be prevented by proper truck maintenance.
Rural Roads Pose A Hidden Threat
Here’s a shocking statistic…
Despite being less traveled, rural road highways see more deadly truck accidents than urban areas. Approximately 55% of fatal crashes took place on rural roadways.
Combining higher speed limits with long stretches of highway creates the perfect conditions for truck accidents. Driving at night also increases your risk due to poorer visibility and less lighting.
Things that make rural driving more dangerous include:
- Higher speed limits
- Fewer street lights and poor lighting
- Limited line of sight at night
- Longer response times for emergency crews
- Drowsy drivers on lengthy stretches
Traffic mirrors installed at rural driveways and blind intersections can help drivers spot oncoming vehicles earlier, reducing the risk of collisions at low-visibility entry points. Don’t let those beautiful country highways lull you into a false sense of security. Remaining vigilant is key to staying safe on rural roads.
Safety Tips You Need For Every Road Trip
Great, we know the risks. How can we stay safe on our road trip?
I’m glad you asked…
Here are some helpful tips to keep you safe the next time you hit the open road.
Prepare Your Vehicle For The Journey
This is your first line of defense when traveling by car…
You don’t want to be broken down on the side of the road in an unsafe position. Take the time before your trip to ensure your vehicle is in top condition.
Run through this checklist before your next road trip:
- Check tire pressure
- Ensure tires have sufficient tread
- Check all fluid levels
- Test lights and signals
- Inspect brakes for wear
- Replace windshield wipers if needed
Having an emergency roadside kit in your trunk is always a good idea. Include a flashlight, jumper cables, first aid kit, water, and a phone charger.
Drive Defensively Around Large Trucks
Let’s talk about driving around big rigs…
These trucks aren’t as nimble as your average sedan. They have large blind spots and take longer to stop. You have to be careful sharing the road with trucks.
Always remember these safety tips when around trucks:
- Avoid blind spots on all sides of the truck
- Never cut a truck off when passing
- Allow extra turning room for trucks
- Don’t crowd trucks or engage in aggressive driving
- Use your blinkers early when around trucks
Remember, truck drivers can’t always see you. If you can’t see their side mirror, they can’t see you either. Simple as that.
Avoid Dangerous Driving Habits
We’ve all heard it before but it deserves mentioning…
Drinking and distracted driving aren’t the only ways you can hurt yourself on a road trip. Driving while tired can cause you to fall asleep at the wheel. Speeding also increases your risk of being in an accident.
You can avoid risky behaviors by:
- Taking breaks every two hours
- Switching drivers on longer trips
- Staying off of your phone when driving
- Obeying the speed limit
- Avoid driving while tired or sleepy
- Never drive under the influence of drugs/alcohol
If you start to feel tired on longer trips, pull over and take a break. Get something to eat. Stretch your legs. If you’re too tired to drive, pull over and sleep. It’s not worth risking your life by driving drowsy.
Steps To Take If You’re In A Truck Accident
We hope none of you find yourselves in this situation…
But if you’re involved in an accident with a truck, know that there are steps you can take.
At The Scene Of The Accident
Think safety and documentation.
If you can, move your vehicle out of traffic. Call emergency services immediately. Get medical attention as soon as possible.
Try to collect as much of this information as you can:
- Truck driver’s name and license number
- Trucking company name and contact info
- Insurance information from all parties
- Photographs of scene and vehicle damage
- Names and contact info from witnesses
After The Accident Occurs
Trucking injury claims can be complicated.
You’ll most likely be dealing with the truck driver, trucking company, and insurance companies. Truck accidents are much more complex than your standard vehicle collision.
Document any injuries with photos and medical records. Don’t accept any insurance settlement offers until you know the full extent of your damages. Consult with a lawyer that specializes in truck accidents.
Wrapping It All Up
Highway safety should be every road tripper’s number one concern.
Truck-related fatalities are increasing every year. You can’t drive safely if you don’t know what you’re up against. Here’s a quick recap of everything you need to know about highway safety:
- Understand the dangers of sharing the road with trucks
- Double check your vehicle before every road trip
- Drive defensively when trucks are nearby
- Avoid distracted, drowsy, or impaired driving
- Know your rights if involved in a truck accident
Grab life by the horns and start planning your next road trip. Just remember to drive safely and you’ll make it to your destination!
