There are a number of dangers inherent in sharing the roadways with semi-trucks - most we don't really give much thought to unless they are faced with a problem. Consider the following:
*Semi-trucks have considerable blind spots on all 4 sides. If you are traveling too close the driver may not see your vehicle. If the semi driver makes a left-hand turn in front of you - you may not be able to avoid an accident.
*Semi-trucks require greater stopping distances (up to 40%) than passenger vehicles of all other types. If you are traveling too close and a semi has to make a sudden or unexpected stop - you may not be able to avoid an accident.
*Semi-trucks with double-wide loads require exponentially greater room to speed up, slow down or move from lane to lane than the typical semi-truck. Their weight often exceeds 80,000 pounds.
*Semi-trucks are not always properly loaded. There are certain requirements for securing a load and ensuring that it will not shift when being carried across open roads - but they are not always met. When objects fly off a semi-truck at highway speeds other drivers are at risk of injury and accidents.
The truck driving industry employs lobbyists whose sole purpose is to lobby your representatives to weaken the current legislation related to trucking. Fewer safety regulations and requirements translate to greater profits for trucking companies - at the expense of other drivers.
Greg Baumgartner is a Texas semi truck accident lawyer and the founder of the Baumgartner law firm, which is dedicated to helping personal injury victims seek civil justice. If you would like to speak with a Texas big rig accident lawyer call the Baumgartner firm.
