3 Ways to Avoid Truck Accidents on Unfamiliar Roads

Thanks to global positioning devices, it’s never been easier to navigate unfamiliar roads. However, according to theLarge Truck Causation Study, more than 22 percent of truck accidents are due to drivers not being familiar with their routes. This is a problem that is particularly relevant to commercial truck drivers, many of whom travel out of town regularly.

 

 

If you were in a car or truck accident, contact the Cooper Law Firm. We can handle all of the legal aspects of your claim and may be able to help you recover lost wages and medical expenses. A Tyler accident lawyer will evaluate your crash and determine if you may have valid grounds for a claim. Call us today at 903-297-0037 to schedule a consultation.

Although some accidents are unavoidable, there are precautions that you can take to reduce your chances of being in a collision. Here are three of them:

1. Plan Your Route before Leaving

It is important that you plan the route before you leave for your trip or delivery. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, this will help you stick to your schedule, and it will prevent you from becoming distracted by a map or GPS while driving.

Electronic devices can be of assistance if you are travelling on new roads, but make sure you program these before departure. Do not attempt to update the route or address while you are driving, and opt for a GPS device that has voice navigation so you can keep your eyes on the road. If you get lost, pull over at a safe place and ask for directions or consult your map.

2. Make Your Intentions Clear

It is easy to get flustered when you are behind the wheel and lost in an unfamiliar territory. If you are having trouble navigating your route, it is important that you do not forget to signal your intentions to other drivers.

Use your turn signals and check the roadway carefully before changing lanes. If other drivers can predict your actions, then you are less likely to get in an accident.

3. Avoid Rash Decisions

If you suddenly realize that you missed an exit or were going in the wrong direction, do not attempt to correct it immediately. According to the FMCSA, there were approximately 50,000 moving violations related to abrupt lane changes between 2004 and 2007.

Rather, continue driving and look for a safe way to resolve the problem. You may find another exit ahead so you can double back. Also, many GPS units will automatically reprogram your route.

If you were in a truck accident, contact the Cooper Law Firm for advice. We will evaluate your case and determine if you may have valid grounds for a claim. To schedule an appointment, call our Tyler accident attorney today at 903-297-0037.