Tanker Truck Accidents Can Be Devastating – Here’s How to Stay Safe

There are a number of things you can do to safely share the road and prevent automobile accidents with large trucks.

Large tanker trucks are rather common on Missouri roads. As if the sheer size of it doesn’t raise the risk of a fatal accident, you also need to consider that a lot of the times these tanker trucks are transporting dangerous, hazardous materials.

It’s the main reason why an accident involving tanker trucks can be so devastating. They raise the risk of:

• Poisoning
• Fires, explosions
• Road debris
• Getting directly hit by flying cargo

Plus, you need to consider that based on the size of the truck alone, a collision with it can often result in extensive bodily harm and even death.

When driving on Missouri roads and approaching a tanker truck, there are some things you can do to stay safe:

Avoid It, Whenever Possible

The reality is that the only way to ensure 100% safety, in this case, is to avoid driving next to, behind, or even in right front of a tanker truck.

So if you can, try a small detour. If not, make sure you’re not driving in one of the truck’s blind spots, such as directly behind, right in front, or right on the side. These spots will make the tanker driver unable to see you, and it could be very dangerous. Leave enough space if you’re driving behind or in front of the truck, or drive on the other lane if you’re on the sides.

Stay Alert

Drive more cautiously when you’re near a tanker truck and pay close attention to your surroundings. Accidents can sometimes happen in a split of a second, and there is almost nothing you can do about that, but other times you may have time to get yourself out of a dangerous situation.

But to do that, you need to keep your eyes on the truck and the cars driving next to it.

If There’s an Accident Ahead, Slow Down

If you see a tanker in an accident up ahead, it’s very important to slow down. You never know what kind of debris there is on the road, or what chemicals are being spilled. It’s always good to assume there is no ‘safe zone’ you can use to pass by.

Contact the authorities at once, and wait for them to give you the sign you can drive on, or should turn around.

Involved in an Automobile Accident? Speak With an Experienced Attorney

Sometimes taker truck accidents are caused by a reckless driver, a vehicle malfunction, or even a 3rd driver who was not at all careful on the road.

In any case, these accidents end in a lot of damages and bodily harm, meaning they generally require a lot of money for medical treatments. If this happened to you, get in touch with a St. Louis car accident lawyer immediately.