The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration states that the average semi-truck is roughly 20 to 30 times heavier than a standard vehicle (i.e., 4,000 pounds compared to 80,000 pounds). The length of a semi-truck with a trailer attached is roughly 80 feet, and a standard car is roughly 16 feet. A semi-trucks extreme weight and length can make drivability difficult! Here are four ways size and weight affect drivability:

1. Turning & Maneuvering the Semi-Truck Can be Difficult

An overweight truck coupled with the length of the truck can make maneuvering very difficult. In order to drive a semi-truck without squeeze play accidents occurring, the driver must be trained properly before ever stepping foot in his big rig. If an accident occurs, the semi-truck could tip over and cause serious damage and injuries to any vehicles or people caught in the way.

2. Roll-Overs May Occur

An object or person’s center of gravity contributes to stability. Because a semi-truck has a higher center of gravity than a smaller, compact-sized vehicle, it has a higher likelihood of rolling or tipping over. The driver must be mindful of the size, weight, and the turning capabilities of the truck.

3. Ascent & Descent are Affected

A semi-truck’s weight will force the truck to go slower as it ascends a hill, making the truck work harder and take longer to accelerate. As it descends a hill, the semi-truck will gain speed quickly and it will take longer to brake. If you are traveling near a semi-truck as it ascends or descends a hill, give it plenty of space or pass quickly if you must.

4. Intense Gusts of Wind Can Tip the Semi-Truck

If a semi-truck has little or no cargo in its trailer and the wind is severe, the semi-truck can easily tip over. The driver must have insightful thinking to best maneuver the semi-truck during various weather conditions. Wind is not the only weather threat that could cause semi-truck accidents. Other weather conditions that can contribute to accidents or fatalities include hail, snow, and rain.

Our attorneys zealously fight for semi-truck accident victims! Call us today for a free consultation: 478-254-5040

Stay tuned for our six-part series on semi-truck accidents:

1. 5 Fatal Causes of Semi-Truck Accidents
2. 4 Ways the Size & Weight of a Semi-Truck Affects Drivability
3. 4 Factors that Determine a Semi-Truck’s Stopping Distance
4. Explaining the Dangers & Fatal Consequences of an Overweight Semi-Truck
5. How to Avoid a Squeeze Play Accident with a Semi-Truck
6. Simple Tips to Minimize Semi-Truck Accidents at an Intersection