3 Ways Truckers Can Avoid Accidents on Unfamiliar Roads – Insights from an Omaha Injury Attorney
Commercial truckers tend to be the most experienced drivers on the road. However, they are not immune to accidents – especially when they travel in unfamiliar regions.
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, at least 22 percent of truck wrecks occur on unfamiliar roads. Fortunately, you can reduce your risk of becoming a statistic by following these three tips:
- Plan your route;
- Do not break traffic laws if you get lost;
- And signal your intentions.
If you suffered injuries in a truck crash that another driver caused, contact Rensch & Rensch Law. A truck accident lawyer in Omaha will answer your questions, structure your claim, and help you fight for the maximum settlement.
Our attorneys have more than 45 years of combined legal experience. Call 1-800-471-4100 to schedule a consultation. You can also learn more about personal-injury lawsuits in Nebraska by visiting the USAttorneys website.
Here are three tips to keep in mind when driving on unfamiliar roads:
- Plan Your Route
The Federal Highway Administration offers comprehensive maps and helpful tools to help truckers plan their routes on long-distance hauls. This can help you avoid missed turns, unexpected speed limit changes, and other consequences of driving in unknown territories.
If you are using a GPS, then set it before you start the engine. Make sure it sits in a position where you can see the route without repositioning your hands, head, or body.
You may need permits to transport certain cargo or chemicals across state lines. Look into this well before you embark on a long journey.
- Do Not Break Traffic Laws If You Get Lost
It is easy to get lost on unfamiliar roads. However, you should not break traffic laws to correct your mistakes.
If you miss a turn or exit, do not change lanes abruptly or make illegal U turns. Not only could this lead to a traffic citation, but behaving erratically will also make it difficult for other motorists to anticipate your actions. This could lead to an accident.
- Signal Your Intentions
Unexpected traffic, inclement weather, and other delays can compound the stress that comes with driving on unfamiliar roads, but it is critical that you remain calm and drive responsibly. Part of this is signaling your intentions to other drivers.
Be sure to use your turn signal before any lane change. Try to avoid last-minute decisions because other drivers may not expect you to change lanes or turn suddenly.
If you were injured in a truck crash that another motorist caused, contact Rensch & Rensch Law. An Omaha injury attorney will assess your accident, interview witnesses, gather evidence, and help you pursue the maximum compensation.
Our attorneys have litigated more than 100 jury trials, and if we do not win, then you do not pay attorneys’ fees. Call 1-800-471-4100 to schedule a consultation.
