Surprising fact about truck accidents

September 29, 2021 | Crandall & Pera Law
Surprising fact about truck accidents

It can sometimes be intimidating to drive near large trucks in Lexington, Kentucky. Big heavy semi-trucks can do a lot of damage when they’re involved in an accident. But did you know that the vast majority of truck accidents involving passenger cars are not the trucker’s fault?

Passenger car drivers cause most truck accidents

Statistics on truck accidents show us that passenger car drivers are responsible for 80% of multi-vehicle truck accidents. That means that while driving near large trucks, you have a big responsibility as the driver of a car. When trucks are involved in motor vehicle crashes, it is nearly always the occupants of passenger cars who are the most injured. Therefore, it is pertinent for car drivers in Kentucky to stay safe around trucks.

What car drivers can do to prevent truck accidents

To stay safe around large trucks, it’s important that you understand the limitations of trucks. For example, truck drivers have more blind spots than cars and a longer stopping distance. Knowing these two things, car drivers should remember not to linger in a truck’s blind spot and to be careful while passing in front of a truck. While driving behind a semi-truck, remember that the truck requires a wide area to make turns. Your following distance should allow plenty of space for the truck to turn, especially if you notice the trucker putting on a turn signal. Trucks also have larger mirrors that reflect lights, so remember to dim your high beams while passing trucks at night.

Sometimes it is the trucker’s fault

There are also plenty of accidents that are caused by negligent truck drivers. In many cases, truckers get into accidents due to drowsy driving or intoxication. If you were injured in a truck accident under these circumstances, you may be able to file a claim against the trucker and the trucker’s employer.