This week we have been discussing truck accidents that take place on on-ramps and off-ramps, including recent off-ramp truck accidents in Virginia and the common causes of off-ramp truck accidents. In today’s blog post, we’ll discuss what you can do as a driver to help avoid being involved in a tractor-trailer on-ramp crash or off-ramp accident.
• Give trucks extra space. The single most important step that you can take to avoid these accidents is to absolutely never tailgate a truck on an on-ramp or off-ramp. Make sure there is plenty of room between the back trailer of the truck and the front of your car in case the truck loses control or rolls over.
• Merge with care. Merging onto an interstate or highway from an on-ramp can be a harrowing experience, especially if the highway is congested with trucks. Be sure to use your turn single, to match the speed of traffic, and to never assume that an oncoming truck is traveling the speed limit.
• Beware truck rear-ending. One of the most deadly aspects of using interstate off ramps is the danger of a truck failing to slow for exiting traffic. Being rear-ended by a truck on a highway or interstate is often deadly, especially if you are slowing or stopped in off-ramp traffic. If you fear that the truck behind you won’t see that you’ve stopped, turn on your hazard lights or tap your brakes several times.
• Report speeding and reckless trucks. On-ramps and off-ramps become extremely dangerous when 18-wheelers do not drive on them with caution. Do not hesitate to call the trucking company or the authorities when you see a truck making dangerous decisions on ramps.
Injured in a VA truck accident that involved an interstate on-ramp or off-ramp? Talk to a Virginia personal injury attorney today. Call (833) 997-1774.