During winter, one of the biggest challenges for truck drivers is operating their vehicles in the ice and snow. Because trucks are larger and heavier, it takes longer for them to brake as it is. When the driver is operating in ice and snow, braking takes even longer. Therefore, truck drivers are expected to follow specific rules and may be found negligent in an accident if they are found to not be following these rules.
Guidelines
Truck drivers are expected to follow best practices when driving to remain safe. For example, they are expected to have the right number of chains for their tires. A commercial truck driver is not allowed to operate the truck unless they believe that the truck is safe to operate.
Commercial Truck Maintenance
It's always important that a commercial truck be properly maintained, and this is especially true during the winter. The driver must make sure that the wheels, lights, steering wheel, brakes, mirrors, and horns are all in good working condition. The driver must check the coolant and antifreeze levels. The windshield wipers and windshield washer fluids need to be filled. The defrosting and heating equipment must be checked to make sure that they are functioning properly.
Sun Glare
Truck drivers can sometimes struggle to see the road during rush hour around winter time when the sun is in the wrong position. It can be especially difficult to see when the windshield is dirty. Not being able to see due to sun glare is not an excuse. If the truck driver ever believes that they are unable to safely operate the truck, they should pull over to the side of the road.
Truck Accident Litigation
A truck accident can lead to serious injuries due to the size and weight of the truck. You will want to seek compensation for your injuries as soon as possible to pay for any medical bills you have suffered. Therefore, you will need to gather evidence with the help of a truck accident attorney regarding the cause of your truck accident and prove that the driver did not respond appropriately to the winter weather conditions.
If there were any witnesses to the accident, make sure that you have their contact information and that you have permission to use them as witnesses. Then, your attorney will be able to call upon them when proving your case. Contact a truck accident lawyer to learn more.
It isn't always easy to know how to move forward after something happens like a car accident, but the right people can guide you through the process. From talking with you about how you are feeling to helping you to file the appropriate paperwork, accident and personal injury attorneys make it easy to improve your life. If you are struggling after a car incident, don't feel like you are alone. Reach out to professionals to make sense of your financial situation and your vehicle repair. By making the right changes today, you can improve your entire future for the better.