Driving a semi-truck is a challenging task under normal conditions. When high winds come into play, the risk of accidents increases significantly. Understanding how high winds affect semi-trucks is a key way for drivers to protect their safety.
What kinds of accidents can high winds cause?
Semi-trucks have big sides and a high center of gravity, which makes them vulnerable to strong winds. The side of the truck can catch the wind like a sail, causing the truck to move side to side or even tip over. This happens more often with empty or lightly loaded trailers because they do not have enough weight to keep them steady on the road. Crosswinds, or winds that come from the side, are especially dangerous because they can push the truck off its path.
Some types of accidents that can occur due to high winds include:
- Overturning: In severe cases, strong winds can cause a semi-truck to overturn, especially if the truck is driving at high speeds or the wind gusts are exceptionally strong. Gusts of 60 miles per hour or more can flip a truck, but lower wind speeds can still create danger.
- Jackknifing: High winds can cause a trailer to swing out from behind the truck, leading to a jackknife situation. This is dangerous not only for the truck driver but also for other vehicles on the road.
- Loss of control: Sudden gusts can lead to a loss of control, making it difficult for the driver to maintain their lane or avoid obstacles.
- Lost cargo: in high winds, drivers may also lose control of their cargo. If items fly off a trailer, they can strike other vehicles or create roadway hazards.
How can drivers stay safe around trucks in high winds?
In high winds, drivers can take steps to protect their safety when sharing the road with large commercial vehicles. These precautions include:
- Keep a safe distance: Stay further back than usual from trucks. This gives you more time to react if the truck sways or changes lanes because of the wind.
- Be cautious when passing: Pass trucks quickly and safely. Don’t stay in their blind spots, and be ready for sudden movements from the wind.
- Anticipate gusts: Watch out for open areas or bridges where wind gusts happen more often. Change your driving to be ready for trucks to react to these winds.
- Stay alert and focused: Pay attention to the road and trucks around you. Avoid distractions and be ready to make quick decisions if needed.
- Be patient: If a truck is swaying because of the wind, give it space and avoid aggressive moves. Being patient and careful can stop accidents.
Unfortunately, high winds can put even cautious drivers in danger. If an accident occurs, injured motorists should understand their options – including a truck accident lawsuit – to ensure that they have the support they need.
Which heavy winds can lead to serious truck accidents, it is possible for drivers to protect themselves and their rights.