While many driving maneuvers may seem not seem challenging to 4-wheel drivers, they can be incredibly tricky for 18-wheeler drivers. Simple tasks such as turning and braking an 18-wheeler are complicated, which is why trucking companies are supposed to ensure their drivers are trained and have the skills to drive safely. Without proper training, the chances of catastrophic injuries in truck accidents increase.
Wide turns
One common type of accident caused by truck driver error is the result of a wide turn. When a truck driver executes a turn, there are a few steps he or she should take to ensure all other motorists are safe. The truck driver should signal the turn, slow down, consider blind spots and then turn. When they fail to do so, they could end up causing an accident. Speeding through the turn might make them lose control of their oversized vehicle and turning too widely could result in a head-on collision. Accidents caused by wide turns are generally considered to be the truck driver’s fault.
Other causes of accidents
Truck drivers are often required to drive long hours and remaining alert for long stretches of time can result in fatigue and exhaustion. An exhausted driver is more likely to make bad decisions on the road, turning their vehicle into a cause of destruction.
It is the trucking company’s responsibility to ensure its drivers are properly trained and have continuing sessions until they are comfortable with their vehicles. When they fail to do so, the company and driver may both be held accountable for their negligent behavior. An experienced attorney may be able to help victims get the compensation they deserve.
