The highways and roads in Florida are busy, and a significant percentage of that traffic is trucks of various kinds. Semi-trucks in particular pose specific hazards on the road, and it’s important to be aware of this.
Some of the most devastating motor vehicle accidents involve trucks, primarily due to their size. And one of the worst varieties is head-on collisions involving a truck.
Common causes of head-on truck collisions
In most cases, a head-on truck collision comes about because of driver error, frequently the truck driver allowing the vehicle to enter the oncoming lane. The truck will then impact another vehicle going the other way, causing a potentially deadly auto accident.
Truck drivers are especially prone to this type of driver error for several reasons. Truckers often drive under tight deadlines, and they may be driving while tired. Many truckers also drink alcohol while off the clock, and occasionally may end up driving while impaired. Fatigued or inebriated driving results in massively higher risk of accidents.
How to protect yourself
Given the potentially fatal consequences, minimizing your chances of a head-on truck collision should be a priority. Fortunately, you can take a few simple actions to keep yourself safe.
If you’re driving on any road with two or more lanes where trucks are present, make sure to drive in the right lane as much as possible. Many head-on truck collisions involve a vehicle in the leftmost lane, and by staying to the right, you give yourself more time and space to maneuver should a truck come over the median.
Vigilance is also your ally. When driving around trucks, be on the lookout for any signs that a truck might be at risk to cross into your lane. If a truck is weaving or not holding a straight line, take steps to prepare yourself in case that truck goes out of control.