Truck Accident Lawyers

Driving in Hazardous Road Conditions

When the road conditions a truck driver faces are hazardous, it is very important that certain precautions be taken. Driving under hazardous conditions demands special skills and undivided attention.

As a general rule, slowing down when road conditions are less than perfect is an excellent place to start. Allowing extra space between vehicles is another good way to decrease the risks of hazardous road conditions. Without these two items being implemented, the hazardous road conditions are more important.

Ice and snow are two of the most hazardous conditions a driver will face. They severely limit the ability of the vehicle’s tires to gain traction on the road. When moving through fresh snow, maintaining a steady speed is very important. Rapid acceleration is likely to result in skidding. Brakes should be applied lightly and released quickly should skidding begin.

Hard-packed snow or ice is more dangerous than fresh snow. Chains are necessary on the wheels to increase traction. Snow tires are not much help. They add little to no traction and give the driver a false sense of security. Deflating tires assists in preventing skidding.

Snow and ice affect visibility, stopping distance, maneuverability, and vehicle control. Water can have many of the same effects as snow or ice. When just a little rain has fallen, the oil on the roads becomes extremely slick. With a lot of water falling, visibility is severely compromised. In addition, hydroplaning is possible.

Contact a Truck Accident Lawyer

If you have been injured by a truck driver who failed to take basic precautions while driving in hazardous conditions, contact the truck accident lawyers of Williams Kherkher at 1-800-220-9341 to schedule an initial consultation today.