It can be intimidating to drive a small car, truck, or SUV near an 18-wheeler, and rightfully so.
These large, powerful vehicles are involved in about 5,000 fatal accidents every year, and an estimated 1 in 8 traffic deaths are related to 18-wheeler accidents.
Often, the cause of these accidents can be traced back to driver or trucking company negligence or even manufacturing flaws and mechanical malfunctions.
First, given the size and power of these vehicles, it is important for all of the mechanical parts to work safely and efficiently.
Tires, steering, and brakes must all be in top shape for a truck driver to remain in control of his or her vehicle.
If the tires are worn, defective, or improperly inflated, they can cause blowouts and rollovers.
Should a truck driver lose steering, even stopping the uncontrollable truck may be too late for other cars around the 18-wheeler.
Lastly, if the brakes fail, there is virtually no way for the driver to stop the truck without causing an accident.
Next, driving an 18-wheeler is not the same as driving a smaller car, truck, or SUV.
There are large blind spots, a different turning radius, and factors that drivers must consider like load distribution and road conditions.
Thus, it is imperative that truck drivers receive proper training and licensing so that they can handle these large vehicles as competently as possible.
Also, truck drivers often spend long hours on the road.
If they are a part of a trucking company, the employer must schedule sufficient breaks in the schedule so that the driver can get much-needed rest.
These rest breaks are mandated by law, and a drowsy truck driver can be just as deadly as a drunk driver.
Lastly, sometimes smaller vehicles can get trapped in an 18-wheeler's "no-zone," or blind spots that are present in the front, rear, and either side of the truck.
If the truck driver does not see the smaller vehicle, he or she can run them over, crush them against other vehicles, or force them off the road.
If you have been involved in an accident with an 18-wheeler, you may be entitled to financial compensation to help you with your physical and emotional suffering.
To discuss your case, contact an experienced Iowa truck accident lawyer from LaMarca & Landry, P.
C.
, today.