Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Missouri and How to Avoid Them
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Leading Causes of Truck Accidents
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- Truck driver error.1
- Vehicle issues. 1
Why Are Semi-Truck Accidents So Dangerous?
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Tips to Avoid Truck Accidents
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- Maintain a safe distance.1
- Avoid blind spots. Trucks have larger blind spots (also called “no-zones”) than smaller vehicles. Stay out of these blind spots to ensure the truck driver can see you. If you can’t see the truck’s mirrors, the driver likely can’t see you.
- Use turn signals. Always use your turn signals to indicate lane changes or turns. This gives truck drivers ample time to react and adjust their driving accordingly.
- Don’t cut off trucks. Cutting off a truck or suddenly changing lanes in front of one can be dangerous because trucks require a longer distance to come to a stop. Ensure there’s plenty of space before merging in front of a truck.
- Pass safely. When passing a truck, make sure you can see the entire cab in your rearview mirror before merging back into the lane. Don’t pass on the right unless necessary.
- Avoid distractions. Stay focused on the road and avoid distractions such as texting, eating, or adjusting the radio. Distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents.
- Be patient. Understand that trucks may take longer to accelerate, decelerate, and maneuver. Be patient and avoid aggressive driving behaviors around trucks.
- Watch for turns. Be cautious when trucks make turns, especially right turns. Trucks often need to swing wide to make turns, so give them extra space and be prepared to yield if necessary.
- Obey speed limits. Follow posted speed limits and adjust your speed according to road and weather conditions. Speeding reduces your ability to react to sudden changes in traffic.
- Stay alert. Watch for signs of fatigue or impairment in other drivers, including truck drivers. If you notice erratic behavior, keep your distance and report it to authorities if necessary.
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We’re Your Advocates After a Truck Accident in Missouri
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