Tips for Preventing Truck Accidents in an Illinois Winter

 Posted on November 07, 2019 in Car Accidents

There is no denying that the Midwest has some of the most extreme weather, from hot and humid summers to bitter cold winters with a rainy season in between. Illinois winters have a reputation for exhibiting some of the worst conditions. Snow and ice can wreak havoc on traffic and cause serious problems for motorists. Truck drivers need to be extra cautious due to the size and volume of their vehicles. It is a proven fact that it takes longer for a truck to come to a complete stop than a car. In blizzard-like conditions, a truck accident can result in serious to severe injuries for the truck driver as well as the occupants of a car after a collision.

Safety Measures for All Drivers

When the seasons change, Illinois motorists need to change their driving habits. Regardless if you are operating a semi-truck or a compact car, precipitation of any kind warrants slowing down and taking other measures. Here are a few safety precautions to keep in mind when traveling in hazardous weather on the highway:

• Stay calm: If you feel yourself panicking behind the wheel, try to relax and take deep breaths to calm yourself down.
• Slow down: Drive only as fast as your abilities and the capabilities of the vehicle permit for the road conditions.
• Control your actions: Your behavior on the roadway needs to be controlled and deliberate. Maintain a consistent speed, create more space between you and the car ahead in case that vehicle stops unexpectedly. Do not slam on the brakes, and steer gently.
• Turn on your headlights: Make sure to turn on your headlights even during the daytime if the weather is bad so other motorists can see you better.
• Use your turn signals: Do not make lane changes without alerting other drivers of your upcoming movements by signaling first. When getting off at an exit, for example, put on your turn signal before you start slowing down.
• Be aware of tire spray: Be aware of water spraying from a truck’s tires. A significant amount of spray means the roads are wet. If the pavement appears wet, but there is not a lot of spray, the precipitation is turning to ice. If the road looks wet but there is minimal to no spray, that could mean black ice.
• Watch other drivers: Pay attention to what the truck drivers are doing and if they are slowing down, you should too. This will help avoid a pileup in the event you have to brake suddenly.
• Do not stop: If visibility is poor, do not stop in the middle of the road because you will be hit from behind since the driver behind you cannot see either. Proceed along slowly until you can safely move your car off to the shoulder. Wait out the storm until you can see clearly ahead of you.

Even when the above safety tips are followed, accidents involving a truck can and still do happen. In some cases, another driver may have been distracted or intoxicated, which led to the crash. It is important to contact an experienced attorney to determine who is at fault in order to seek compensation for damages.

Contact a Bloomingdale Personal Injury Lawyer

Driving can be a dangerous profession or pastime, especially in inclement weather, such as winter snowstorms. If you or your loved one were hurt in a trucking accident, your injuries may be severe enough that you are unable to work. The Law Offices of David W. Clark, P.C. have experience in all types of personal injury cases. Our accomplished Bloomingdale truck accident attorneys will assist you in determining liability for your crash so you can seek damages for pain and suffering, in addition to lost wages. Call our office today at 630-665-5678 to schedule a free consultation.

Source:

https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/ourroads/long-stopping-distances