Big rig truck on the highway viewed through the windshield of a car

How to Avoid a Truck Accident on our Reno Highways

Truck accidents are some of the most severe cases handled by truck accident attorneys in Reno. A simple rear-end collision or side swipe with a semi-truck can cause devastating injuries due to the size and weight of these vehicles. The aftermath of such accidents often leads to long-term physical, emotional, and financial hardship.

Reno’s rapid growth and its position at the intersection of two major freeways make it a high-risk area for truck accidents. These freeways are heavily traveled by long-haul truckers, as well as delivery trucks moving goods throughout the region. With so many large vehicles on the road, it’s crucial for all drivers to be extra cautious.

The good news is that most truck accidents are preventable. With greater awareness and safe driving practices, we can reduce the likelihood of these dangerous crashes. As truck accident attorneys, we’ve seen many accidents that could have been avoided if drivers simply gave more thought to their actions when near large trucks. By following safety tips and staying aware of your surroundings, you can help prevent these accidents and keep our highways safer.

 

What to Do After a Road Accident with a Truck: Legal Steps to Take

If you’re involved in a road accident with a truck, follow these crucial steps:

  • Contact Authorities: Call the police to report the accident and file an official report.
  • Seek Medical Attention: Ensure you and others involved are checked by a doctor, even if no immediate injuries are apparent.
  • Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any injuries.
  • Contact Matt Dion and Associates: Reach out to Matt Dion and Associates for legal advice and to understand your rights so you can get the compensation you deserve.

Taking these steps helps protect your health, rights, and future. If you need assistance, contact Matt Dion and Associates for expert guidance.

 

The Role of Truck Accident Attorneys in Getting You the Compensation You Deserve

If you’ve been involved in a truck accident, truck accident attorneys are crucial to help you secure the compensation you deserve. These attorneys specialize in handling the complexities of truck accident claims, ensuring you don’t have to navigate the legal process alone. Here’s how they can assist:

  • Legal Guidance: Attorneys guide you through every step of the legal process, ensuring your rights are protected.
  • Negotiating with Insurance Companies: They handle communication with insurance companies to get you the maximum compensation.
  • Gathering Evidence: Your attorney will collect important evidence like police reports, witness statements, and medical records to build a strong case.
  • Fighting for Fair Compensation: They work to get you compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain, and suffering.

By working with experienced attorneys, you can ensure that you’re not left alone to deal with the financial and emotional stress caused by the accident. 

Here are a few tips to keep in mind when driving around a big-rig truck that will keep you and the truck driver safe and avoid a truck accident:

  • First thing to remember is that these trucks are big and heavy. They need much more room and time to stop than a normal car.
    • When changing lanes, ensure a safe distance before pulling in front of a truck;
    • Remember trucks have a significant blind spot;
    • Do not pull in front of a truck if you anticipate that you will need to slow or bring your car to a stop, such as right before a light or on an offramp.
  • Give trucks plenty of space. Drifting by the truck driver due to drowsiness or inattention is a common cause of highway accidents.  It is important to give trucks plenty of room, because if they do start to drift, you will not be in the path of harm.
  • Do not hang out in a truck’s blind spot. A good rule of thumb is that if you can’t see their mirrors, they cannot see you. These trucks are long, tall, and while they can see most of their surroundings with mirrors, there are four distinct blind spots on a semi truck:
    • Left side, under the cab mirror;
    • Right side, under the cab mirror and extending out;
    • In front of the truck cab, at least 20 feet; and
    • Behind the trailer, at least 30 feet.

Truck Blind Spots Infographic

  • Do not tailgate. Remember, big-rig trucks do not have rear view mirrors and cannot see you if you are dangerously close behind them. Also they are much taller than the common passenger vehicle and can block your view of traffic in front of you. If a truck stops suddenly and you don’t, your car could go right underneath their bumper.

As a truck accident attorney in Reno, Matt has seen his share of personal injury as a result of car vs. semi truck, but we can all do our part on the road to avoid these incidents. Be aware, give trucks space, don’t cut them off, avoid blind spots, and don’t tailgate. Let’s all do our part to keep our highways safe. If you are, however, injured as the result of a truck accident, we have the experience to help.

If you find yourself in such a situation, seek legal advice from us to ensure your rights are protected, and you receive the compensation you deserve.