Truck drivers are required to go through several types of checking and get commercial licenses before they can even get a job at a trucking company. Since there are so many strict rules and regulations involved, some people assume that it is safe to drive nearby trucks as they are experienced and probably experts in driving. If only that were true.
Even though the government has introduced strict measures regarding truck drivers and their driving hours, there are plenty of irresponsible truck drivers. It is important to understand the potential hazards of sharing the road with a vehicle that big and heavy. If you have sustained injuries in a truck accident, consult with a team of Las Vegas truck accident lawyers today.
Debunking myths about driving near trucks
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Truck drivers are less likely to cause accidents than other drivers.
While it is true that truck drivers undergo special training to get commercial licenses and operate big rigs, they are also humans at the end of the day. They are as likely to make mistakes as other drivers on the road. Truck drivers often engage in negligent driving behavior, such as speeding, distracted driving, tailgating, aggressive driving, and drunk driving. The risk of an accident is even greater due to the complexity of the vehicles.
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Large mirrors increase visibility for drivers.
Trucks and other commercial vehicles are equipped with larger, taller, bulkier mirrors than passenger cars. These mirrors help modern truck drivers to spot vehicles and pedestrians in the blind sports. However, despite their sizes and appearances, big mirrors do not give trucks better visibility.
The mirrors may compensate for the blind spots, but they still do not show the complete view of what is happening outside. If you cannot see the truck’s mirror, always assume that they cannot see you as well.
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Truck drivers have the training to drive on little sleep.
It is never safe to drive with an inadequate amount of sleep as it hinders your judgment and vision. That being said, truck drivers are trained to operate complex vehicles. They are not trained to drive on little or no sleep. In fact, truck drivers are required to take legally mandated breaks after driving for a certain number of hours. Drowsiness can affect a truck driver as much as any other person.
Whenever you are driving near a commercial truck, remember that they do not operate like your average SUV. They require more time to come to a halt. Treating a truck like any other passenger vehicle can land you in trouble. Contact an attorney if you were injured.