Like all other Canadian provinces, Nova Scotia has a strict licensing system in place for truck drivers—and with good reason! Operating a heavy truck requires a specific skillset that isn’t necessarily part of the regular driver’s ed curriculum. However, despite being trained for the job, truck drivers aren’t immune to the inherent dangers associated with being on the road. What’s more, accidents involving heavy trucks are often more complex from a legal standpoint when injuries are involved. Read on for some key information about truck accidents—and what to do if it happens to you.
When are truck accidents most likely to occur?
The answer is somewhat counterintuitive. According to Transport Canada, most heavy truck collisions involving casualties (injury or death) occur during the day, in clear weather, on dry roads and in higher speed zones (i.e. highways). An excellent reason to stay vigilant at all times behind the wheel, no matter what type of vehicle you drive!
What are some common causes of truck accidents?
Fatigue is a factor in approximately 30% of fatal collisions involving a heavy truck. Other causes include:
- Lack of attention and distraction
- Speeding
- Failure to yield
- Unsafe passing
- Improperly secured loads
- Tire blowouts
How can I lower my risk of being involved in a truck-related accident?
Sharing the road with large trucks is inevitable, but there are definitely ways you can adjust your behaviour to limit your chances of getting into an accident while driving near a large truck. Some tips to keep in mind:
- Always maintain a safe distance when following a truck.
- Never, ever cut off a truck. Make sure you’re well ahead of it before pulling in front.
- Give truck drivers the right of way.
- Stay out of a truck’s blind spot unless it’s absolutely necessary. A good rule of thumb: if you can’t see the driver in the truck’s rear-view mirrors, he or she probably can’t see you either.
What happens after a truck accident involving injury or death?
Truck accidents can have horrific consequences on the quality of life of those involved. If you or someone you know was injured in a truck-related collision in or around Halifax, seek the assistance of an experienced personal injury lawyer without delay. Injured victims, whether at fault or not, may be eligible for financial support via statutory accident benefits. For those not at fault, legal options include initiating a lawsuit for compensation and damages.
Have any questions for a lawyer about the steps to take following a car or truck accident in Halifax or anywhere in the Maritimes? Get in touch with the personal injury experts at Wagners right away for a free consultation. Our team of personal injury lawyers in Halifax can help you make the most of an unfortunate situation and ensure that you’re compensated to the full extent of the law.