Because of a semi-truck’s long tractor-trailer, the driver must make wide turns to avoid hitting curbs or cars. When the driver begins making his wide turn, the passenger vehicle behind the big rig might assume he is going straight or turning in the opposite direction. If the passenger vehicle attempts to pass the semi-truck or turn in front of the big rig, a squeeze-play accident may occur.
A squeeze-play accident involves a passenger vehicle getting squeezed between a semi-truck and another object. This is especially dangerous because it often occurs in the truck’s blind spot and can crush the car with occupants still inside.
Tips to Avoid a Squeeze Play Accident
Avoiding a squeeze-play accident is simple, as you can take 100% responsibility for staying out of the semi-truck’s blind spots. Be patient while driving near a semi-truck and implement these tips.
1. Be Mindful of a Semi-Truck’s Blind Spots
A semi-truck has substantial blind spots due to its sheer size. The blind spots on a semi-truck are as follows: directly in front of and behind the truck and next to the first half of the truck on both sides. If you must be in the lane next to a semi-truck, make sure your vehicle is next to his taillights (or even farther back), as this allows the truck driver to see your vehicle in his mirrors.
2. Never Assume Which Way the Semi-Truck is Turning
Even if the semi-truck driver has his turning signal on, do not assume you know which way he is turning. When the driver is turning, do not drive alongside the truck. This is how deadly squeeze-play accidents occur.
3. Pass an 18-Wheeler When It’s Traveling Straight
You will not be caught in a squeeze-play accident if you choose to pass an 18-wheeler when it is traveling straight. Never pass a semi-truck when it’s turning. Keep a lane between your vehicle and the semi-truck when you pass it. If an extra lane between the two vehicles is not possible, pass it quickly so you do not stay in the driver’s blind spot for more than a few seconds.
4. Leave Plenty of Space Behind the Semi-Truck
If you are directly behind the semi-truck, make sure you keep at least five car lengths of space between your vehicle and the back of the trailer. This will ensure that the driver can see your vehicle and it is not in danger of a squeeze-play accident.
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:
- 5 Fatal Causes of Semi-Truck Accidents
- 4 Ways the Size & Weight of a Semi-Truck Affects Drivability
- 4 Factors that Determine a Semi-Truck’s Stopping Distance
- Explaining the Dangers & Fatal Consequences of an Overweight Semi-Truck
- How to Avoid a Squeeze Play Accident with a Semi-Truck
- Simple Tips to Minimize Semi-Truck Accidents at an Intersection