Precautions for Preventing Michigan Semi-Truck Accidents
Every day, thousands of semi-trucks travel Michigan highways, from Grand Rapids and Detroit to Kalamazoo and Traverse City. These large vehicles are essential for transporting goods and supporting the state’s economy. However, due to their size, weight, and limited maneuverability, semi-trucks pose unique hazards on the road. Understanding how to stay safe around these commercial vehicles is crucial, as is knowing what law firm to call in the unfortunate event you’re involved in a Michigan semi-truck accident. Sinas Dramis Law Firm has unmatched success handling semi-truck accident cases, and we’re dedicated to guiding our clients through the complex legal process during one of the most difficult times in their lives.
10 Tips to Prevent Being Involved in a Michigan Semi-Truck Accident
Driver behavior factors into nearly 90% of all motor vehicle crashes. Although you can’t control the actions of other drivers, there are proactive steps you can take to reduce your risk of being involved in semi-truck crash.
- Maintain a Safe Following Distance. Always allow for more space behind a semi-truck than you would a regular passenger vehicle. Trucks block your forward visibility, and you’ll need extra time to react to traffic slowdowns or road hazards.
- Never cut in front of a truck. Semi-trucks require much greater stopping distance than passenger cars. Merging too closely in front of a truck can lead to a rear-end collision—often with devastating consequences.
- Avoid Blind spots. If you can’t see the truck driver’s face in the mirror, they can’t see you. Also, when passing a truck, do so on the driver’s side, where visibility is better.
- When Passing, Pass Quickly. Only pass when there’s plenty of space ahead. Avoid lingering next to a truck, where you’re more vulnerable to truck tire blowouts or rollovers.
- Use Caution When Pulling Over. If you need to stop on the highway between exits, do so only in wide shoulders or designated areas. Many crashes occur when a semi-truck drifts and sideswipes a vehicle parked too close to the lane.
- Be Careful Around Turning Trucks. Trucks need more room to turn and often swing wide. If you’re on the inside of a turning truck, you risk being squeezed or hit.
- Be Patient and Let Trucks Merge. If a truck is trying to change lanes or pass you, let it. Impatience or aggressive driving can lead to deadly outcomes, especially around trucks.
- Use Your Signals Early. Give drivers plenty of notice before changing lanes and avoid braking suddenly in front of a truck. Clearly indicating what you intend to do allows truck drivers to adjust their own driving accordingly.
- Watch for Wind and Air Drafts. Strong air turbulence from a moving truck—especially at high speeds—can destabilize smaller vehicles. Stay alert and keep a firm grip on the wheel when passing or being passed by a truck.
- Avoid Distracted Driving. Avoid anything that draws your eyes and attention away from the road and the vehicles around you.
Michigan Semi-Truck Accidents: A Public Safety Concern
Semi-truck accidents on Michigan roadways often result in severe injuries, long-term disabilities, and tragic loss of life. By taking proactive steps toward prevention, you can reduce your risk of being involved in such a crash.
If you or a loved one is injured in a Michigan semi-truck accident, you need an experienced legal team by your side. Sinas Dramis Law Firm has been Michigan’s trusted advocate for the injured throughout the state for more than 70 years. Whether you need a Lansing semi-truck accident attorney, a Grand Rapids semi-truck accident attorney, or legal representation in Kalamazoo, the Detroit area, or Ann Arbor, our award-winning team is ready to fight for your rights. Contact us for a free consultation.