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Tractor Trailer Trucking Accidents: Causes And Prevention
Any vehicle has blind spots, and trucks have even bigger blind spots, commonly referred to as "no zone areas." Generally, the bigger the truck is, the bigger the blind spot will be. We've all experienced blind spots on sides of our vehicles, but tractor trailer drivers have a blind spot towards the back of the truck, and even in the front of the truck. Remember these blind spots, and as a driver, try to avoid being in these spots if it's possible. A good rule to follow is that if you can't see the driver of the truck in his mirror, he most likely can't see you. If you've been involved in an accident with a truck as a result of a blind spot, you should contact an experienced accident lawyer in California for a free consultation. "Squeeze Plays": Wide Turns Cause Truck Accidents in California When a truck makes a wide turn and an accident results from it, it is referred to as a "squeeze play" and is sometimes called a "swinging turn" accident. If a tractor-trailer needs to turn right, it has to move, or "swing" to the left in order to complete the right turn. This can cause accidents in a couple of ways, the first being when the truck is swinging to the left, and a Truck then "squeezes" between the truck and a curb. This happens because truck drivers are very likely to fail seeing Trucks that are driving right next to them. The next kind of accident that can happen as a result of this is when a Truck tries to pass the truck on it's right side, or is driving on the right hand side of the truck, and thus is in the truck driver's blind spot. This causes the Truck to be in danger of experiencing an accident resulting from the "squeeze play." If you have been the victim of an unfortunate squeeze play, you should consult with an injury lawyer who is familiar with this type of case. Sudden Truck Braking and Brake Failure Accidents in California Brake Failure Many trucking accidents occur because of braking issues, and there are many braking issues that a truck can experience. Some of these braking issues include brake failure, failing to properly calculate the stopping distance needed when braking, or when a truck driver uses an improper braking technique. Brake failure can also happen because of the age of the truck or brakes, poor maintenance, or improper installation of the brakes. According to Technical Services (TS), the brakes on a truck can quickly heat up from high amounts of use, such as when a truck driver rides brakes on downgrades or stops suddenly at high speeds. TS also reports that truckers are supposed to apply their brakes so that their speed is reduced about five to six miles per hour during each application. Properly braking prevents runaway trucks. Since tractor-trailers are so heavy, the drivers need to begin braking early when they need to stop, as they have a lot of weight behind them, thus preventing them from being able to stop quickly like a Truck can. The National Safety Council's Defensive Driving Course for Professional Truck Drivers states that for a tractor-trailer that weighs 80,000 pounds traveling at approximately 30 miles per hour on a dry road, should use a braking distance of 100 feet. Just doubling the speed makes the stopping distance actually increase over four times, to 426 feet. If a truck miscalculates the needed braking distance, a rear end collision can occur. Many rear end collisions involve trucks, and truck drivers need to fully comprehend the difference between braking in a Truck and a truck. If you have been involved in an accident involving a runaway truck, or one because of a truck's braking issues, call the California Truck Accident Law Firm in California for a free consultation or contact a semi-accident attorney immediately to discuss the accident. Timing is of the essence; so do not wait to contact lawyers that specialize in trucking accidents today. Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com Free California Truck Accident Review 1-800-908-8124 If you have been seriously injured in a California motor vehicle or Truck accident, it’s time to seek help from the California Truck Accident Law Firm. Right after an injury occurs, it is a stressful time since your future health may be at risk. There are many unknowns. Doctors have to be consulted. Medical bills need to be paid. We will help lift the emotional burden by managing the details of your accident claim so the physical healing can begin. Romemedia, United States |
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