Georgia is one of the busiest trucking hubs in the country. Tractor-trailers carry goods from around the world and across the country along highways and secondary roads. Whether you commute into Atlanta or work locally, you likely share the roads with big rigs daily. When they swerve unexpectedly and cross the double yellow line, they can become deadly. We often represent clients injured in a collision with a big truck.
AAA reports that more than 60% of Americans feel less safe when passing a semi-truck than when pulling ahead of passenger vehicles. Not only is driving a big rig different than driving a car, but it also affects road conditions differently.
Traffic
Due to a tractor trailer’s size and length, it can negatively impact traffic flow. They require more time to stop, so they leave more space between the car than usual and may follow up at a slightly slower pace. Changing lanes takes more time, which means they may block intersections and driveways during peak travel times, delaying you from reaching your destination.
Debris
Large sections of rubber from blown tires, debris left from improperly secured cargo and mechanical parts often land on the travel lanes. The driver may not be aware of these issues due to the noise the truck makes and the difference in handling. The debris becomes hazards for you and others behind them.
Wear and tear
A fully loaded commercial truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds. A typical passenger vehicle weighs around 4,000 pounds. This weight causes roadways to deteriorate faster. Older roads may not be wide enough or thick enough to handle this weight. Some older bridges might not handle the extra weight and height as well as newer structures.
A collision between any two vehicles is dangerous, but when one or more is a big truck, it can be deadly. You might have grounds for a claim if your injuries or those of a loved one occurred because of a negligent truck driver.
