18 Wheeler Accident in Arkansas

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), approximately 4,000 people die each year in large truck accidents, often leaving survivors with catastrophic life-changing injuries. Large trucks generally weigh more than 10,000 pounds and may be either single-unit trucks or trucks pulling multiple trailers, some topping out at 80,000 pounds. It is not surprising that 80 percent of those deaths are individuals riding in passenger vehicles.

Complicated state and federal regulations govern the cargo, loading, weight, maintenance and operation of big rigs. Still, serious 18 wheeler accidents in Arkansas are common, many because of driver fatigue, distraction, maintenance failures and other errors.

Belew & Bell are 18 wheeler accident lawyers with 35 years' experience aggressively pursuing the legal rights of individuals and their families who have suffered truck accident injuries and wrongful death as a result of 18 wheeler accidents in Arkansas.

Avoiding an 18 wheeler accident in Arkansas

While 18 wheeler accidents in Arkansas will always occur, there are steps you can take to avoid a fatal or serious accident with a large truck:

• Stay alert: With their size and length, 18 wheeler trucks handle and drive differently than passenger cars. Watch for turn signals and be cautious of truck turns—the front of the truck may pull wide left in order to negotiate a right hand turn. Observe whether the truck is driving straight or drifting, which may give enough warning of driver fatigue to avoid an 18 wheeler accident in Arkansas.
• Use caution when passing: Never pass a large truck without full view of the area in front and around the truck. Accelerate slightly and maintain a constant speed when passing. Anyone who has passed a big rig knows the importance of passing with enough room to fully view the entire cab before pulling back in front of the truck.
• Always maintain distance: Keep 20 or more car lengths between your car and an 18 wheeler. Because of their size, large trucks require substantial distances to slow. Never pull in front of a large truck to turn, exit or stop quickly. Exercise caution on steep grades or in inclement weather or road conditions, such as in road construction zones.
• Watch the No-Zone: One third of all large truck accidents occur in the areas to the rear right and left of a truck known as blind spots or the No-Zone. If you cannot see the truck driver, they cannot see you. Use caution and do not drive where your vehicle cannot be seen.

Contact a skilled 18 wheeler accident lawyer in Arkansas

If the unthinkable happens, we can help. If you or a loved one has been injured in an 18 wheeler accident in Arkansas, you need skilled legal counsel. Contact us today or call us toll-free at 1 (888) 896-0299.