Why Truck Crashes Are More Dangerous in Missouri Than Normal Cars

Truck crashes are significantly more dangerous than car accidents for several reasons:

Size and Weight Disparity:

Trucks are overwhelming larger and heavier than cars by a substantial margin. This means they have much more momentum in a collision. Imagine a moving truck compared to a small sedan; the force exerted by the truck in a crash is far greater, causing more significant damage and potential for serious injuries, or even fatalities, for occupants in smaller vehicles.

Limited Maneuverability:

Due to their size, trucks have a larger turning radius and require more space to navigate turns, change lanes, or brake suddenly. This limited maneuverability can increase the risk of accidents, especially in congested areas or on winding roads.

Driver Visibility Issues:

Blind Spots: Large trucks have extensive blind spots around the sides and rear of the vehicle. Drivers of smaller cars can easily disappear into these blind spots, increasing the risk of unseen collisions when the truck driver changes lanes or merges.
Mirrors Don't Capture Everything: While truck drivers use mirrors to monitor their surroundings, there are still areas they can't see directly. This can be especially dangerous for pedestrians, motorcyclists, and bicyclists who might be invisible to the truck driver in certain situations.

Cargo Shift:

Trucks often carry heavy cargo that can shift during transport. If the cargo isn't secured properly, it can break free during sudden stops or swerving maneuvers, causing additional hazards on the road for other vehicles.

Driver Fatigue:

Truck drivers are pressured to meet tight deadlines and may spend long hours on the road. This can lead to fatigue, which significantly impairs reaction time and increases the risk of accidents.

Additional Factors:

Truck Braking Systems: Large trucks take longer to stop due to their weight. This can be problematic, especially when sharing the road with faster-moving vehicles.
Roadway Design: Not all roads are designed to safely accommodate large trucks. Narrow lanes, sharp curves, and inadequate shoulders can all contribute to truck accident risks.

Focus on Safety:

By understanding these factors that make truck crashes more dangerous, everyone on the road can be more aware and take steps to improve safety. Here are some tips:

Drivers of smaller vehicles: Maintain a safe distance from trucks, avoid lingering in their blind spots, and be extra cautious when passing or merging near them.
Truck drivers: Adhere to speed limits, take breaks to avoid fatigue, and ensure cargo is secured properly.

If you've been involved in a truck accident, remember to seek medical attention and consult with a personal injury lawyer to understand your legal options.