Large Trucks Make Wide Turns: Potential Causes of Accidents
Given their size and the realities of driving a big commercial vehicle, large trucks make wide turns. This tends to not be an issue on highways, of course, but while on city streets, this can lead to a number of dangers to commuters, bicyclists, and pedestrians. When large truck accidents occur, it's important to have skilled attorneys on your side to hold negligent parties accountable.
The lawyers here at Chanfrau & Chanfrau have helped many clients throughout east-central Florida, such as Holly Hill and other cities in and around Volusia County. Let's take a moment to consider the dangers that arise when large trucks make wide turns.
Hazards on City Streets
When driving around large trucks on city streets, it's important to give large trucks room, especially on the sides. Large trucks have major blind spots given the size of the vehicle and the restrictive view from the cabin of the truck. This means motorists to the sides of a large truck may not be visible to a driver. When making a wide left turn or right turn, a vehicle to the side of the truck may be struck.
Dangers to Bicyclists and Pedestrians
If large trucks pose a danger to other drivers, you can imagine how much greater this danger is to bicyclists and pedestrians on city streets. Bicyclists may be crushed under a large truck that doesn't notice them, and pedestrians could suffer catastrophic or even fatal injuries if they happen to be hit by a large truck. This is especially true on busy streets or major thoroughfares.
Give a Large Truck Room on the Road
Always play it safe around large trucks, giving these vehicles ample room. When you notice a large truck is signaling to make a turn, be sure to slow down or move out of the way to avoid a collision from occurring. For bicyclists and pedestrians, be as cautious as possible when you see large trucks. Bicyclists can steer clear of large trucks at all times, and pedestrians can stay on curbs at crosswalks rather than partially standing on the street.
Negligence by Truck Drivers While Making Wide Turns
There are times when a driver of a large truck acts negligently while behind the wheel. They may fail to signal that they are turning, for instance. They may also fail to check their mirrors to ensure the coast is clear. In those cases, it's important that the truck driver be held accountable for their actions. There may be a chance that the trucking company bears some responsibility as well; such would be the case of the company hired an improperly trained truck driver, or if they forced a driver to operate a vehicle without having regular rest.
Our lawyers can help you take on negligent truck drivers and trucking companies, seeking just legal damages to address the accident that occurred.
Learn More About Truck Accident Lawsuits
If you or someone close to you has been involved in a collision with a commercial truck, we encourage you to contact an experienced accident and injury attorney today. The lawyers of Chanfrau & Chanfrau can go over your legal options in greater detail.
