How Can Semi-Truck Drivers Avoid Rollovers? 5 Tips from a Tyler Truck Accident Attorney

Semi-trucks have high centers of gravity, so they are more prone to rollovers than passenger vehicles. These accidents contributed to a significant portion of the 3,800 truck crash deaths in 2012.

Fortunately, truck rollovers are entirely avoidable. If you drive a big rig, keep these tips in mind:

1. Watch your speed;
2. Adjust your driving to the weather;
3. Be aware of road curves;
4. Avoid overloading;
5. And do not rush.

If you were injured in a truck crash that another driver caused, contact the Cooper Law Firm. Attorney N. Eric Cooper is a semi-truck accident lawyer in Tyler who can assess your wreck, interview witnesses, structure your claim, and help you fight for the maximum settlement.

Mr. Cooper is a member of the Texas Trial Lawyers Association and the Gregg County Bar Association. Call 903-297-0037 to schedule a consultation. You can also visit http://truck-accident.usattorneys.com/texas/ to learn more about injury claims in Texas.

Here are five tips to help truck drivers avoid rollovers:

1. Watch Your Speed

Speeding contributes to nearly half of all truck rollovers, according to the National Institutes of Health. Commercial drivers must adhere to posted speed limits and reduce their velocity when carrying heavy loads, navigating poor weather, or approaching bends in the road.

2. Adjust Your Driving to the Weather

Although driver error causes most truck accidents, poor weather is often a contributing factor. To avoid a rollover, reduce your speed in rain, fog, snow, and other adverse weather conditions. You should also be cautious when driving in high winds; a powerful gust can contribute to a rollover.

3. Be Aware of Road Curves

Truckers must drive cautiously when approaching curves in the road. If you travel too fast, the truck’s high center of gravity can shift and cause a rollover. These crashes are particularly common on off- and on-ramps.

4. Avoid Overloading

Overloading your truck or trailer can increase the likelihood of a rollover. The load can shift and cause an imbalance, which can lead to a rollover when navigating a curve. Overloaded trucks are also more difficult to handle. Visit the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles website to learn the size and weight limits.

5. Do Not Rush

If a breakdown or unplanned delay causes you to fall behind schedule, it can be tempting to rush. However, no deadline is as important as driving safely. Speeding, weaving through traffic, and other reckless behaviors increase the likelihood of rollovers – not to mention every other type of accident.

If you sustained injuries in a truck crash, contact the Cooper Law Firm. N. Eric Cooper is a Tyler truck accident attorney who can help you navigate the claims process.

As the victim of another driver’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for lost income, time off work, and noneconomic damages. Call 903-297-0037 today to schedule a consultation.