You had just paid your toll on the Chesapeake Expressway and were getting back onto 168, when you noticed the truck ahead of you was moving strangely. It kept shaking and wobbling, and the driver had to keep braking for no apparent reason. Although you don’t normally mind driving behind trucks, this one gave you a funny feeling, and you weren’t quite sure what to do about it.
Should you try to pass him, or keep your distance? Could he be in trouble? What should you do?
Common Signs a Truck Is Out of Control
Truck accidents kill 3,500 people and cause over 6,000 serious injuries every year. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, although the majority of the accidents are caused by the trucker losing control, 98 percent of the injuries (fatal and non-fatal) are suffered by nearby motorists and pedestrians. This frightening statistic is enough to cause panic attacks every time you see a truck, let alone drive near one. However, with proper awareness and detection, you can help decrease your and your family’s odds of injury, by predicting—and being able to avoid—a collision before it even occurs.
When driving near a truck, stay alert for the following signs that the trucker may have lost control or that the truck itself is having mechanical problems. If you witness any of these signs, back off immediately!
- Swerving, shaking or veering. Trucks can be difficult to handle, and even a slight overcorrection can cause a trucker to lose control. Although slight movements aren’t definite signs of an impending accident, you should increase your distance to give the trucker room to maneuver.
- Excessive or abrupt braking. This could be a sign of driver distraction or fatigue; either way, it’s best to keep your distance.
- Tilting or shaking trailer. An unbalanced or unstable trailer could cause the entire truck to lose control, tip, or roll over.
- Wobbly or loose tires. Odd looking or poor tire rotation could be a sign of excessive wear and tear, possibly indicating a potential blowout in the near future.
- Open trailer, loose objects, or unsecured cargo. An open or poorly secured trailer could cause the shipment to fall into the roadway or directly on your car.
- Loud or slowly responsive brakes. Brake issues could be a sign of poor overall maintenance, which might mean the entire truck is an 18-wheeled death trap. It’s best just to steer away.
Getting Compensation for Your Injury
Although staying alert and identifying possible signs of distress can lower your odds of a tragic collision, accidents can still happen out of nowhere. This is why it is important to have someone who is committed to helping you and your family after an unforeseen truck accident. Our extensive truck accident knowledge and experience will help you get the compensation your family needs for treatment and damages.
Our clients are part of our family, and as such, we’re driven to make sure they get the justice they deserve. As part of our family, you too will witness our diligence and compassion for getting you the settlement your injuries require.
But you don’t have to take our word for it. Feel free to read our clients’ firsthand accounts of their own claim experiences, and see how we helped them get their rightful settlements. We can extend you the same helping hand. You can also follow us on Twitter or like us on Facebook to see periodic updates, client responses, and updated claim information.