When driving on the highway in California, it’s essential to be careful. Other cars and large trucks are traveling at fast speeds alongside you. If you come in contact with a big rig, your automobile will likely be totaled, and there’s a good chance you’ll be seriously injured or killed.
Passing a semi-truck or tractor-trailer correctly
Taking a defensive posture is vital when you’re near a semi-truck. It can take longer to stop than passenger vehicles, and they have a more significant blind spot. Truckers can also get tired due to the long hours they spend on the job driving to different locations, leading to an accident. To help ensure you stay safe when passing a big rig it’s best to pass on the left. You’ll also want to remain visible for a while before you make your move to ensure the driver sees you. Pass at a safe speed and leave plenty of room before moving back over to the right lane.
Trucking accidents can lead to serious injuries
Statistics indicate that trucking accidents cause injuries or death about every 15 minutes, so it’s critical to pay attention when you’re near a tractor-trailer or semi-truck. Unfortunately, getting into an accident with a big rig can cause soft tissue damage and broken bones. Whiplash, pain and stiffness are also often associated with trucking accidents. In severe cases, traumatic brain injuries and paralysis occur.
Diagnosing injuries
If you’ve been involved in a wreck with a large truck, medical professionals will need to examine your body for any injuries you’ve suffered. Doing so requires X-rays, CT scans and MRIs. After getting hurt in this type of accident, it can be a long road back to better health.
Trucking accidents can occur quickly. If you’re near a big rig, drive defensively and pass cautiously.