A blog about legal issues facing Oklahomans

When I was learning to drive, my Driver’s Education teacher made us watch a film on the devastating effects of driving. It wasn’t one of those blood-splattered-on-the-highway films, this one talked about various risks associated with driving, things that could cause problems.

Back then we didn’t have cell phones, at least the prevalent number we do now, so my teacher discussed risks like a cluttered car, semi-trucks, distracted driving, and sleep.

I remember the day we talked about truckers. Her words were, "semi trucks are the worst thing on the road. Never be near a semi."

I didn’t fully appreciate those comments until I’d accumulated some road experience, and experience driving a semi-sized vehicle.

The problem with semi-trucks and large vehicles is two-fold:

First, large vehicles are bulky, slow, and full of blind spots and potentially dangerous hazards for the driver. Most professional drivers are cautious about the troubles of operating the vehicle, but occasionally, it’s the "unprofessional" or common driver, who creates the hazards.

Second, since professional drivers, especially those over-the-road operators spend many, many hours in a vehicle, it’s entirely too easy to get complacent about driving. Monotony is the single most dangerous hazard for any driver, and professionals aren’t any different. Moreover, it’s an all too common practice for drivers to drive beyond regulated times, sometimes beyond exhaustion.

There have been recent reports in the paper and on television about truckers who cause fatal or near-fatal accidents. Recently, a trucker caused an accident on I-35 between Norman and Oklahoma City when the trucker’s vehicle crossed over the median into on-coming traffic.

Although there’s inherent dangers with driving any vehicle, you should be especially vigilant around semi trucks. These massive vehicles have increased and limited stopping ability, and are often more dangerous than your own car. It’s important for you to give drivers their space, and pass these vehicles as soon as possible.

If you’re interested, here’s another article on the risks of a cluttered car.

If you’ve been injured in a car accident or by a semi-truck, it’s important to seek assistance. Absolute Legal Services, LLC, can help you receive appropriate compensation for your injuries. Don’t try to let the insurance company or the trucking company negotiate a deal without speaking to us. Call us at (405) 748-0318, or email: contact@absolutelawfirm.com.