An estimated 100,000 thunderstorms occur in Georgia and throughout the United States each year. Thunderstorms can occur at various times during the day, so it is important that truck drivers check the weather report before making deliveries. Take a look at some strategies that you can employ to minimize your chances of getting into an accident if you do have to drive through a storm.
Make sure you can see
Prior to getting on the road, it may be a good idea to clean your truck’s lights. Doing so could make it easier to keep track of smaller vehicles on the road or to spot vehicles that are on the shoulder. During periods of heavy rain, it may become difficult or impossible to see very far in front of your windshield. In such a scenario, it might be a good idea to pull over to the side of the road until the storm passes or becomes less intense.
Remember that water can wreak havoc on vehicles of any size
Ideally, you will avoid any sections of a road or highway that are covered in water. In most cases, it only takes 2 feet of moving water to overpower a commercial vehicle. If your truck starts to skid on a wet highway, try to regain control of it by steering into the skid and resisting the urge to apply the brakes.
Maintain an adequate following distance
Your truck will likely need more time to slow down or come to a stop on a wet surface, and the same is generally true for other vehicles in your vicinity. Therefore, it is a good idea to increase your following distance during times of inclement weather in an effort to avoid an accident.
If you are hurt in a motor vehicle accident that was caused by another driver, you may be entitled to compensation from that person. In some cases, multiple parties might be liable for damages incurred in a crash. An attorney may work to help you hold those parties accountable for their actions.
