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Defensive driving strategies to help reduce truck accident risks

On Behalf of | Jul 6, 2023 | Truck Accidents

While many individuals may be aware of the role commercial vehicles play in transporting products and goods, they may still feel that driving near these vehicles can be a stressful endeavor. The idea of being involved in a collision with a commercial vehicle may be even more daunting in nature, as such incidents could carry a greater risk of resulting in disaster. While preventing all truck accidents may be a difficult task, there might still be steps drivers in Illinois can take to help mitigate the risks involved. 

Studies indicate that there may be various types of defensive strategies drivers can use that could help reduce the risks of being involved in a truck accident, such as: 

  • Adequate spacing:  As commercial vehicles are inherently larger and more difficult to maneuver than other vehicles, allowing adequate spacing could be vital to mitigating a variety of safety risks. 
  • Blind spots:  Using caution to avoid lingering in the blind spot of a truck may also be essential, as this could prevent a sudden lane change from creating a dangerous scenario. 
  • Lane changes and turns:  Allowing additional space when changing lanes in front of a tractor-trailer and using turn signals to clarify one’s intentions when driving in front of such vehicles are two more examples of vital defensive strategies. 

Taking care to avoid driving next to a truck for extended periods may also be vital, as a sudden tire blowout could occur at any moment and debris from the blowout could create a hazardous situation.  

Using defensive driving strategies could help reduce the risks of truck accidents, but it might not always be enough to prevent a collision entirely. Unfortunately, the outcome of such collisions could pose a dire threat to one’s safety and well-being. Those who suffer severe injuries during such incidents and have questions about their available options for legal recourse could consider speaking with a personal injury attorney in Illinois for advice on the best course of action to take to protect their future interests. 

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