Collisions involving semi-trucks can be very serious due to their immense size and poor visibility. Both truck drivers and drivers of cars sharing the road with them need to be hyperaware of a truck making a wide turn, as this process is one of the leading causes of accidents involving semi-trucks. Our Pasadena TX truck accident attorney mentions how the injuries can be devastating and sometimes even fatal.
Accidents Cause by Negligent Wide Turns in Texas
Semi-trucks have a wide turning radius, which means they can’t make a right turn as easily as an ordinary car. In order to turn right, the truck needs to be swung to the left first. This sometimes confuses cars nearby, who may think the car is turning left, especially since truck drivers are sometimes unable to signal. Due to this, a driver might attempt to pass the truck on the right, and when the truck begins to turn in that direction, the car can get trapped between the truck and the curb. This is called a “squeeze play.” It can sometimes even force the car underneath the truck, leading to extreme injuries.
There are several steps truckers and the companies they work for can and should take to avoid squeeze plays or any other form of collision. Semi-truck drivers should:
- Make turns slowly
- Use turn signals if available
- Keep the rear of the vehicle close to the curb
- Turn wide as the turn is completed
- Not turn wide to the left at the start of a turn when possible
- Watch for oncoming vehicles
- Never back up except when absolutely necessary
Trucking companies could also share in the cause of a squeeze-play accident by not doing all of the following:
- Ensuring that all equipment is properly working
- Installing appropriate mirrors
- Training all truck drivers fully and confirming that they are qualified
- Completing regular drug and alcohol testing
- Ensuring shifts are reasonable enough in length to avoid driver fatigue
What to Do If You’re Hurt from a Texas Truck Accident
If you find yourself in a truck accident but manage to avoid catastrophic injury, there are steps you should take to protect your immediate future.
First, call the police. Do not leave the scene of the accident until the police arrive and have assessed the damage and gathered evidence. Next, make sure to seek medical help. Even if you don’t feel as if you have any injuries, it is important to get medical attention right away, as not all injuries are visible, and some might appear in the days or weeks ahead.
Finally, call an attorney. If you have been in an accident with a truck, you can receive compensation for your losses. At SJ Injury Attorneys, we have the knowledge and experience you need to properly navigate the aftermath of a truck accident. Give us a call to set up an appointment to discuss your unique situation and receive the support you deserve.
