Statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) show that trucks account for about 7% of road traffic accidents. However, trucks are involved in 12.5% of annual traffic accident deaths in the country. These significantly disproportionate statistics show that accidents involving trucks are more likely to result in death than car crashes. This is why it is vital for all truckers to maintain safety measures and observe traffic rules to avoid crashes.
One of the key tools for preventing truck accidents is the truck’s brake system and good trucker braking practices. Truckers must observe good braking practices to keep trucks under control, especially when going at fast speeds. Read on to learn more about good trucker braking practices and some of the techniques a trucker can employ to enhance its braking system.
Proper Braking Technique
Brakes only supplement the braking effect when on a steep and long highway. Knowing a proper braking technique helps truckers control trucks and prevent collisions. Once the truck is in the right low gear, here are some of the proper braking techniques you can apply:
- Steadily step on the brakes hard enough until you feel a definite slowdown in the truck’s movement.
- When the speed has significantly reduced to about five mph below what you see as “safe speed,” gently release the brakes. This step should be executed in about three seconds for the best results.
- When your speed increases beyond your “safe” speed, reapply the first two steps.
For instance, if your safe speed is 35 mph, you will engage the brakes until the speed reaches 30 mph and release them. Recycle this process as many times as possible until you have reached the end of the steep road. Doing so will prevent irregular braking that makes you lose control of the truck.
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Good Trucker Braking Practices Prevent Accidents
It takes a longer distance for a truck to come to a stop than a smaller vehicle. Any damage or wear and tear on the truck’s brakes increases the time it takes to stop it. This underlines the importance of truck brake maintenance, especially for commercial trucks traveling long distances. One of the key good trucker braking practices is maintaining the brake system. A good braking system helps truck drivers anticipate the distance it takes to stop the truck. This plays a key role in keeping another motorist safe.
It is the legal responsibility of all truckers to maintain good braking practices and ensure their braking system is always in good condition. Massachusetts law requires truckers to maintain all parts of the truck well to prevent truck accidents.
A Personal Injury Attorney Will Help
If you have been involved in a truck accident and sustained injuries due to another person’s fault, you need the help of an experienced Boston personal injury lawyer. When such accidents occur due to truck brake failure, both the driver and the company can be held liable for damages and injuries. Our dedicated and experienced attorneys at DiBella Law Offices, P.C. are ready to help you pursue justice.
Our Boston truck accident lawyers have many years of experience representing truck accident victims and have helped retrieve lucrative settlements for many injured clients. We know what it takes to increase your chances of getting a favorable verdict for your claim. With us, you will have more chances of getting an ideal settlement. Call (978) 327-5140 to schedule your free and confidential consultation.
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