Large truck rollover accidents are the worst kind of truck accidents. Considering, for these accidents to occur the large truck must flip over while moving. Unfortunately, this type of accident is all too common on the roadways.
In fact, large trucks are prone to rollover accidents. This is due to their high center of gravity making them top-heavy. But these accidents are preventable. Knowing the common causes will help you to be proactive and decrease the amount of truck rollover accidents.
Common Causes of Trucking Rollovers
Incidentally, truck rollover accidents can occur because of many factors. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), over 78% of them involve driver error. However, driver error is not the only cause. Some of the common causes of truck rollovers include:
- Speeding – Higher speeds while turning or going around a curve could cause the trailer load to shift. This gives the truck more potential for a rollover accident.
- Careless/Reckless Driving – This includes drivers who are sleep-deprived, under the influence, and inexperienced with driving large trucks.
- Improperly Loaded Trailer – Causes rollovers when the shifts in transit. Commonly, due to not properly securing the cargo or unevenly distributing the weight of the cargo.
- Wind – Large truck trailers are tall and long making them susceptible to high winds. Drivers should avoid driving during high wind advisories.
- Improper Maintenance – Not maintaining the proper tire pressure and damage to the suspension can cause the truck to tip. Especially, when driving around sharp curves, uneven road surfaces, and steep downhill grades.
TIPS to Avoid a Trucking Rollover Accident
Even though, you cannot prevent truck driver error or weather conditions. While sharing the roads and highways with large trucks you can take precautions to avoid a rollover crash with a large truck.
- Drive Slower – When driving do not zip around or try to get the truck driver to drive faster. The higher speeds can contribute to many different accidents including rollovers. So, slow down and try to be patient. Even if it means you add a few minutes to your drive.
- Avoid Truck Blind Spots – Remember in order for the truck driver to see you, you must be visible in the truck’s mirror. Staying out of the blind spot can prevent the truck driver from trying to change lanes into you or an overreaction when the driver notices you in the lane. Keeping you, the truck driver, and other motorists safer.
- Don’t Pass Next to a Sharp Drop – Always focus on passing safely. Avoid passing on the side a steep drop and make sure you stay in your lane.
- Allow Truck Drivers Room to Turn – When a driver truck does not have enough room to turn it increases factors that can lead to rollover accidents. So, don’t follow too closely and allow plenty of room for them to turn.
- Pay Attention to Truck Cargo – While you can’t see the cargo in an enclosed trailer, you can see cargo on a flatbed. They secured cargo on flatbeds with straps. Unfortunately, the straps can loosen during the drive causing the cargo to shift. If you notice the cargo moving around don’t drive beside the truck. Try to signal the driver to make them aware of the issue.
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