Failure to perform adequate evasive action could cause severe, long-term injuries or even loss of life. The Large Truck Crash Causation Study shows that at least 14% of large commercial truck accidents happen when drivers take inadequate evasive action.
Inadequate Evasive Action: What Is It?
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration defines inadequate evasive action as circumstances in which a driver fails to effectively perform an evasive maneuver, causing a crash. For a driver to perform evasive maneuvers, he or she must handle the steering and brakes correctly. Examples of inadequate evasive actions include failing to slow down when traffic has stopped or reacting incorrectly to dangers in the roadway.
Avoiding Traffic Accidents
Distracted driving accounts for most of the truck accidents that are ruled to be caused by inadequate evasive action of a truck driver. Although it’s difficult to avoid a crash, there are some guidelines that a driver can follow to prevent an avoidable accident.
- Watching for Brake Lights
A driver should always pay attention to several lead vehicles in front or approximately 15 seconds ahead of him or her. He or she should also focus on the brake lights of those vehicles. That way, he or she will properly respond to changing conditions.
- Developing Effective Scanning Skills
A driver should glance over the driving environment and detect possible hazards. He or she should decide on the appropriate action to take and then perform the action correctly. Recognizing potential hazards on the roadway before they arise keeps a driver ready to perform adequate evasive actions.
- Slowing Down
Following the posted speed limit strictly can significantly lower the odds of a truck driver performing an inadequate evasive action. He or she should always slow down when the weather is harsh or traffic has stopped or is stopping.
- Observing Routine Maintenance
By keeping up with regular maintenance, the vehicle will always be in good condition. It will also be easy to spot potentially dangerous issues such as tire defects or damages early and have them repaired.
The Details Are Indispensable
The amount of time a driver takes to react to a situation determines whether an accident will be considered unavoidable or a result of inappropriate evasive action. Consequently, a comprehensive description of the accident must be provided.
