St. Louis is a vibrant city known for its iconic landmarks, bustling streets, and diverse communities. As you navigate the roads, it’s crucial to stay alert and mindful of your surroundings, especially when sharing the streets with large commercial trucks. Truck drivers play a vital role in the transportation industry, delivering goods and services across the nation.
However, some truck driving maneuvers can pose significant risks to other drivers on the road.
The guide will explore six truck driving maneuvers that can threaten St. Louis drivers and discuss the importance of promoting safe driving practices. So, fasten your seatbelts, and grab your virtual map to embark on a journey to explore the potential dangers posed by certain truck driving maneuvers on St. Louis roads.
1. Speeding in Residential Areas
As bustling neighborhoods and quiet streets coexist in this vibrant city, it is essential to maintain caution and respect the speed limits to ensure the safety of road users. According to Hertz, the speed limit for trucks on residential roads in Missouri is 40mph. However, there are instances where some drivers may exceed the posted speed limits, putting themselves and others at significant risk.
The consequences of speeding in residential areas can be severe, often leading to catastrophic accidents and life-altering injuries. In such unfortunate events, seeking the expertise of a St. Louis truck accident attorney becomes crucial for those affected by negligent truck drivers.
A skilled St. Louis truck accident attorney specializes in handling cases related to truck accidents. They provide legal guidance and representation for victims seeking justice and fair compensation.
However, on your part, it is crucial to maintain thorough records of all expenses incurred as a result of the accident. These may include vehicle repair costs, medical bills, anticipated future treatments, and any income lost during your recovery or the recovery of a loved one.
According to TorHoerman Law, by diligently documenting these expenses, you provide valuable evidence that will enable your lawyer to build a strong case on your behalf. These records serve as a concise summary of the losses suffered due to the accident, supporting your compensation claim.
2. Aggressive Lane Changes
These abrupt and reckless maneuvers can result in devastating accidents, endangering the lives of those sharing the road. When a truck driver engages in aggressive lane changes, it often involves swiftly moving from one lane to another without proper signaling. This behavior can startle nearby drivers and create hazardous conditions, especially on busy highways and congested city streets.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a 62-year-old resident of Pacific, Missouri, was driving an SUV in a northbound direction on I-270 on Monday. Tragically, the SUV collided with the rear of a stationary tow truck located within a construction zone.
The impact caused the SUV to become airborne and subsequently collide with a tractor-trailer that was also parked in the construction zone. The force of the collision resulted in the SUV overturning.
Emergency services responded to the scene, and the injured driver was transported to a local hospital by ambulance, as his injuries were deemed serious. Fortunately, there were no other reported injuries in the incident. It is noteworthy that both the tow truck and tractor-trailer involved in the crash were unoccupied at the time, as reported by KSDK News.
In unfortunate circumstances like the one described above, it is imperative for individuals affected by negligent truck drivers to consider the assistance of a St. Louis truck accident attorney. These legal professionals possess specialized expertise in handling cases specifically related to truck accidents. They offer essential guidance and representation to victims who are seeking rightful compensation and pursuing justice.
3. Tailgating and Following Too Closely
When a truck driver fails to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, it greatly reduces the time and space available to react to sudden changes in traffic conditions. This increases the risk of rear-end collisions.
Trucks require longer stopping distances due to their size and weight. It makes it even more crucial for truck drivers to exercise caution and leave adequate space between their vehicle and the one in front. However, instances of tailgating by truck drivers continue to be a concern on St. Louis roads.
To mitigate the risks associated with tailgating and following too closely, both truck drivers and other motorists need to adhere to following safe distances.
Remember, maintaining a safe distance benefits everyone on the road and contributes to a safer driving environment in St. Louis.
4. Failure to Use Turn Signals
Turn signals are essential for indicating intentions and alerting other motorists of upcoming lane changes or turns. However, some truck drivers neglect to use their signals, creating confusion and potentially leading to accidents.
Nationwide data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reveals the severity of the issue. On average, 8.9 percent of all vehicles involved in fatal crashes are large trucks. In Missouri specifically, the percentage of large trucks involved in fatal crashes in 2020 was 9.1%.
The consequences of failing to use turn signals can be devastating. Other drivers are unable to anticipate a truck’s next move, leading to abrupt lane changes, unexpected turns, and potential collisions.
5. Running Red Lights
The consequences of running red lights can be catastrophic, leading to severe accidents and injuries. Unfortunately, this dangerous behavior is not limited to St. Louis alone; it is a nationwide concern.
According to the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety, each year, the act of running red lights leads to a significant number of fatalities and injuries. In 2021 alone, crashes involving red-light runners claimed the lives of 1,109 individuals.
Alarmingly, half of the fatalities consisted of pedestrians, bicyclists, and individuals in other vehicles who tragically became victims of the reckless behavior displayed by red-light runners. Additionally, in the same year, approximately 127,000 people suffered injuries as a result of these dangerous incidents.
Truck drivers, due to the size and weight of their vehicles, have an increased responsibility to adhere to traffic signals and exercise caution at intersections.
6. Distracted Driving
Engaging in any activity that diverts attention from the primary task of driving can have dire consequences.
From texting and talking on the phone to eating, grooming, or using in-vehicle technologies, distractions can impair a driver’s focus and reaction time, significantly increasing the risk of accidents. Truck drivers, who spend long hours on the road, are not immune to the temptation of distractions.
While all drivers need to avoid distractions, the responsibility lies particularly heavy on truck drivers due to the size and weight of their vehicles. The potential consequences of a distracted truck driver can be devastating, given the immense force involved in a truck collision.
To Wrap it Up
Understanding the risks associated with these truck driving maneuvers helps to make informed decisions, adapt driving behavior, and respond effectively when encountering adverse situations. By practicing defensive driving, maintaining patience, and respecting the rules of the road, you can contribute to a safer driving environment for everyone in St. Louis.
Remember, road safety is a shared responsibility. Working together as a team can help create a harmonious driving experience in St. Louis, where every journey is marked by safety, courtesy, and consideration.
