Massive big rig trucks travel at high speeds while carrying an enormous amount of weight. A truck driver could follow the posted speed limit rules in Georgia and still present a danger on the road. Tractor-trailers require significant braking distance to come to a complete stop. That’s why drivers must adhere to good safety practices. Otherwise, they might cause a massive accident.
Guidance arrives to note braking distance
A massive semi-truck won’t come to a complete stop safely unless it has enough braking distance to bring the vehicle under control. The NHTSA came up with a chart that details the stopping distance recommendations for trucks. A truck might need 250 feet of distance to come to a complete stop when traveling at a particular speed.
Drivers would still need to make adjustments for road conditions since the recommendation focuses on flat ground and ideal scenarios. However, during heavy rains, a truck may need more distance to stop since the roads are slick.
Driver negligence and stopping distance
Truck accidents may occur because a driver not only ignored recommended braking distance guidelines but contributed other negligent behavior. Tailgating to force a “slow” driver out of a lane would be one example of a negligent moving violation that increases potential dangers.
Truck drivers that take to the roads while exhausted might undermine their ability to operate a vehicle safely. Not taking mandatory breaks may reflect negligence.
Sometimes, drugs or alcohol factor into a driver’s reduced capacity behind the wheel. Both criminal and civil charges could result from accidents these drivers cause.
Distracting behaviors, such as eating and drinking while driving, might be enough to misjudge stopping distance. Drivers not paying strict attention to the road could face liability claims if an accident happens.
A personal injury attorney could counsel truck accident victims. The attorney might review the case to determine all the negligent parties.