Every motor vehicle presents some amount of risk to operators, passengers and other road users. However, the larger a vehicle is, the more damage it can cause in the event of a crash.
For this reason, a recent finding is worth noting. According to a report from Bloomberg’s CityLab, there has been a significant increase in the sales of massive pickup trucks over the last year. And it’s not just the higher number of trucks that could put people in danger of a crash; the ever-expanding size of these vehicles is also concerning.
“Angry giants” taking over the roads
Newer models of pickup trucks are heavier, wider and generally more imposing than ever before. As the author of this Bloomberg article describes, today’s trucks seem hyper-aggressive, militarized and intimidating.
When trucks take up more space and have higher front-ends like they currently do, the result can be visibility issues like massive blind spots. And like the monster trucks you expect to see in an arena, the new supersized pickup trucks have the potential to easily crush anything they run over, whether that is a car or a person.
Unfortunately, these trucks are only getting more popular.
Protecting yourself from these massive threats
Whether you are a pedestrian or motorist, protecting yourself from oversized pickup trucks and commercial vehicles is crucial. While you cannot change the vehicles people purchase or how they operate them, you can take steps to protect yourself from an accident.
First, give trucks more space than you would give smaller vehicles. Doing so can reduce your risk of a collision if there is a sudden stop. Remember that no matter who is to blame for an accident, smaller vehicles (and those inside them) are more likely to suffer damage.
It can also be wise not to assume a trucker sees you. Whether you are driving alongside one or crossing the street in front of a truck, there is a very real chance that you are in a spot they cannot see.
Finally, be especially vigilant when sharing the road with a large truck. Any mistake or poor decision by the trucker could have catastrophic consequences for you, so watch for trucks that are swerving, speeding or otherwise unsafe and steer clear.
Truck accidents often have devastating outcomes for those involved. Understanding these trends and risks could help you avoid a crash that could change your life. In the event that you or a loved one are injured in a collision, it is essential to speak with a highly experienced motor vehicle accident attorney as promptly as possible. At Arye, Lustig & Sassower, P.C., we have been fighting — and winning favorable results — on behalf of injured New Yorkers for decades. We welcome you to contact us for a free consultation.
