Wide Turn Accidents

On highways, the danger from large trucks involves rear-end collisions and jackknife accidents. But on city streets, the danger includes truck wide turn accidents, usually when the truck driver is taking a left turn. In a truck wide left turn accident, the driver swings his front end wide to allow the trailer or just the back end of a long vehicle to navigate the turn. This maneuver is ripe for accidents, as both truck drivers and other drivers misjudge the turn. If you’re involved in a truck wide turn accident, call the legal professionals at RAM Law to make sure you get compensated fairly for your losses.

Why Do Trucks Make Wide Turns?

Trucks make wide turns for safety reasons. Due to their large size, many trucks — such as 18-wheelers, tractor trailers and other big rigs — require a much larger turning radius than smaller vehicles. When making a turn, the rear wheels of a truck follow a different path than the front wheels, causing the trailer to swing out in the opposite direction of the turn. This is known as trailer swing or tail swing.

To avoid hitting other vehicles or objects on the side of the road, truck drivers take wider turns to compensate for tail swing. If a truck driver makes a sharp turn without allowing for the tail swing, the trailer may collide with other vehicles in the way. Additionally, making wide turns allows truck drivers to make the turn at a slower speed, which also increases its safety and stability.

Most experienced car and truck drivers are familiar with the wide turn phenomenon. Inexperienced truck drivers, though, may not be used to it, leading to a truck wide turn accident. If you’ve been in a truck wide right turn accident or a truck wide left turn accident, which is more common, contact a New Jersey trucking accident attorney at RAM Law. They navigate the legal settlement processes of the accident to win you fair compensation for your losses.

How Can I Avoid an Accident When a Truck Makes a Wide Turn?

Due to their dimensions, large commercial trucks require more space to maneuver, especially when making turns. Failure to take this into account can result in a collision that causes devastating injuries or even death. To avoid a truck wide left turn accident or a truck wide right turn accident:

• Be aware of the truck’s blind spots. Trucks have larger blind spots than cars, especially on the right side and behind the trailer. Make sure you can see the driver’s face in the side mirror before passing.
• Keep a safe distance. Give trucks plenty of space, especially when they’re turning. Don’t pass them on the right, especially when they’re making a wide right turn.
• Pay attention to turn signals. Look for the truck’s turn signals when they’re making their turn. If the driver is signaling, slow down and give them the right of way.
• Stay visible. Make sure you are visible to the truck driver by keeping your headlights on and avoiding their blind spots.
• Be patient. Trucks take longer to make turns. Be patient and give them the time and space they need to make their turn safely.

By being aware of the challenges that truck drivers face, especially when making wide turns, you can help prevent truck wide turn accidents and stay safe on the road. If the truck driver makes a mistake and causes an accident, you need two things: medical attention if you’re hurt and legal advice to recover from your losses.

What Are the Different Types of Wide Turn Accidents?

There are five different types of truck accidents that can occur involving large trucks. Some of the most common truck wide turn accidents include:

1. Sideswipe accidents. This type of accident occurs when the trailer of a truck swings out during a turn and collides with a vehicle in the adjacent lane.
2. Rear-end collisions. Rear-End Collisions> This happens when a driver behind the truck isn’t aware of the truck’s wide turn and collides with the trailer as it swings out.
3. T-bone accidents. These collisions happen when a driver attempts to pass a turning truck on the right and collides with the truck’s trailer as it swings out.
4. Pedestrian and cyclist accidents. While less frequent than other types, this accident happens when a truck makes a wide turn and collides with a pedestrian or cyclist who’s crossing the street.
5. Rollover accidents. These occur when a truck driver attempts to make a turn at too high a speed, causing the truck to tip over.

These truck wide turn accidents may cause serious injuries or even death. If you’re hurt or your car is damaged in a truck wide left turn accident or a truck wide right turn accident, call a truck accident attorney as soon as possible. The personal injury lawyers at RAM Law take your case and fight for fair compensation while you focus on your recovery.

What Should I Do if I’ve Been in a Wide Turn Accident?

If you’ve been involved in a wide turn accident with a large truck, you may be feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. These types of accidents can be particularly devastating due to the size and weight of the trucks involved, so take appropriate steps to protect your safety and your legal rights. By knowing what to do in the aftermath of a wide turn accident, you ensure that you receive the care and compensation you need to recover from your injuries and move forward. Immediately after your truck wide turn accident:

1. Call for medical help. If you or anyone else involved in the accident has been injured, call 911 or seek medical attention immediately.
2. Contact the authorities. Call the police and report the accident. They document the scene and create an accident report that your legal team can use to support your claim.
3. Exchange information. Get the truck driver’s contact and insurance information. Get contact information and statements from any witnesses.
4. Document the scene. Take photos of the scene, including damage to vehicles and any injuries sustained.
5. Contact your insurance company. Notify your insurance company of the accident as soon as possible.
6. Seek legal advice. Consult with a truck accident lawyer like the experienced attorneys at RAM Law. They specialize in personal injury law.

Take these steps as soon as possible after a wide turn accident to ensure the best possible outcome. By being proactive and seeking help when you need it, you can protect your rights and get the medical attention you need to recover from the accident.

How Much Get I Get for My Truck Wide Turn Accident Damages?

If you’ve been involved in a truck accident, get medical care right away if you need it. Then find a truck accident attorney to take your case. It’s impossible to provide an exact figure without evaluating all the specifics of your accident, but several factors impact the value of your case, including:

• The severity of the accident
• The extent of your damages
• The injuries you sustained
• The insurance coverage of the parties involved

To determine the potential value of your truck wide turn accident claim, an experienced personal injury attorney evaluates your case and keeps track of your expenses. After considering the cost of your present and future medical care due to the accident, the loss of short-term and long-term income, and any other damages or losses you sustained as a result of the accident, your lawyer provides a more accurate estimate of how much your settlement may be worth.

When You Are Injured, Our Truck Accident Lawyers at Rebenack, Aronow & Mascolo, L.L.P. Will Help

An accident can be life-changing and saddle you with mounting medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. Our seasoned truck accident lawyers at Rebenack, Aronow & Mascolo, L.L.P. can help. Call 732-247-3600 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. We are located in New Brunswick, Somerville, and Freehold, New Jersey, and we serve clients in Middlesex County, Monmouth County, and Somerset County.