Driving Safely Around Trucks: Useful Tips From the Pros
If you’re like most people, you probably think of trucks as big, intimidating machines that can cause serious damage if you get in their way. But this isn’t always the case. In fact, trucks can be some of the most reliable vehicles on the road. That’s why it’s important to know how to drive safely around them. Luckily, there are a few helpful tips from the pros that you can use to avoid getting into trouble. Read on for some advice that will help keep you safe and reduce your risk of accidents.
The Importance of Seat Belts
The importance of seat belts cannot be overstated. When you are riding in a vehicle, your safety is always at risk. A study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) found that out of all fatal crashes in which a driver was involved, 73 percent of those fatalities were due to unrestrained persons being thrown from the vehicle. Seat belts help to protect you not only while you’re driving, but also when you’re a passenger in the car.
It is important to wear your seat belt properly. Make sure that it is adjusted correctly and fits snugly around your body. Also, make sure that the lap belt fits tightly around your waist and hips. If your child is using a car seat, connect the shoulder straps properly and make sure they are tight enough so that the shoulder belt fits across their chest and shoulder blades.
If you are involved in an accident, do not try to move or get out of the car on your own. Instead, stay calm and call for help. If you are injured in an accident, do not try to walk or drive yourself to the hospital; let someone know where you are and wait for help to arrive.
Knowing When to Use Your Brakes
Knowing when to use your breaks can be a lifesaver. When driving down a highway, braking can mean the difference between avoiding an accident and getting into one. Whenever you’re driving, always use your brakes gradually and fully to avoid skidding. A jackknife truck accident is the result of someone braking suddenly, often causing the truck to spin out of control. If you are involved in a jackknife accident, you will need the help of a lawyer to get your case resolved. If you find yourself in South Carolina, for example, contacting a Florence jackknife truck accident attorney can be the best way to ensure you have the best possible chance of recovering damages from the other party. Keep in mind that there are different laws in every state, so it is important to consult with an attorney in the area where you were involved in a jackknife accident.
Additionally, using your brakes while driving can help you avoid getting into an accident in the first place. If you see someone else driving erratically, get out of their way as quickly as possible. If they don’t have brakes, they may not be able to stop in time and could end up crashing into your car.
How to Stay Safe While Driving in the Rain
If you find yourself driving in the rain, there are a few safety tips to keep in mind. One important thing to remember is that wet roads make for slippery roads and can cause you to lose control of your vehicle. Always use caution when driving in the rain and be sure to leave plenty of space between you and the truck in front of you. Additionally, always wear a seatbelt and drive at a safe speed.
Another important thing to keep in mind is that trucks are much larger than cars and can easily cause accidents if they’re not careful while driving. So when traveling around these vehicles, always exercise caution and drive slowly enough so that you don’t have to brake suddenly. Finally, stay alert while driving during the rain and watch for puddles and other obstacles on the road.
Driving safely around trucks can be a bit of a difficult task – but with some easy tips from the pros, you’ll be on your way to staying safe. When approaching and passing a truck, always take care when gauging the size and weight of the vehicle. Keep in mind that trucks can easily cause accidents, so always stay calm and use your brakes gradually and fully. And, of course, always wear a seatbelt and drive at a safe speed. Finally, be alert for puddles and other obstacles on the road – especially when driving in the rain.