Texas Truck Wreck Prevention: Hanging Out in “No-Zones” is a “No-No”

Most of us have heard of the "no-zones" - those areas around a tractor trailer where you never, ever want to be caught driving. Driving in "no-zones" is a leading cause of Houston truck wrecks. While it is nearly impossible to never drive in a no-zone, a keen awareness of them will ensure you stay safer while in them - and get out of them as quickly as possible.

The following are the "no-zones" around a truck in which you never want to loiter:

 

• Front - Trucks need more room that cars do to stop. For this reason, you should never cut in front of a truck or make sudden moves when a truck is following you. Signal your intentions and change lanes - if possible - if a truck is tailgating you. 
• Rear - Do not tailgate trucks. Not only can the truck not see you, but you also cannot see what is happening in front of the truck. If they stop suddenly, you could end up in the back of - or under - the truck. The vehicle behind you could also force your car into the rear of the truck if they are also tailgating. Also, never drive behind a truck that is backing up. They cannot see you and will be very likely to run into your vehicle.
• Sides - The blind spots on the sides of a tractor trailer are just like those on your car - only much larger. Never loiter beside a truck - and remember, if you can't see the driver's face in the mirror, he can't see you. 
• Right Side - Tractor trailers make large right-hand turns. Never get in between the semi and the curb when they are turning. They will not be able to see you and may turn their trailer into your vehicle, squeezing you between their truck and the curb.

 

By being aware of these zones, you could drastically decrease your chances of suffering serious injuries in a Houston truck crash. If, however, you or someone you love has suffered injuries in a Houston tractor trailer accident, you need to seek legal help. Contact Denena & Points at 877-307-9500 to speak with a Houston accident lawyer about your injury case.