Large truck accidents pose a significant danger to those who drive in New York. A summary of large truck crashes over the course of 2012 compiled by the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles shows that in that year alone, there were 3,299 truck crashes that resulted in personal injury; an additional 83 accidents led to fatalities.
Within the scope of regular truck accidents exists a particularly dangerous situation, in which drivers inadvertently may become trapped between the truck and the adjacent curb. Known as a squeeze play, this scenario can be avoided by taking specific measures while driving near trucks.
What is squeeze play?
Unlike smaller motor vehicles, in order to properly maneuver a truck wide turn, a trucker must swing slightly to the left before turning right, clearing the trailer from colliding with the adjacent wall or curb.
Often, vehicles that travel behind trucks that swing left mistake this for the truck’s intention to turn left and attempt to pass the semi on the right by advancing forward, directly into the truck’s blind spot. As this happens, the truck goes right, “squeezing” the advancing car against the truck and the wall or curb to the right. Just one example of this was when a delivery driver killed a bicyclist in Brooklyn. Even when traveling at slow speeds, a squeeze play truck accident can be fatal for both drivers and passengers in the car.
How to Avoid Squeeze Play Truck Accidents
Drivers should remain diligent and take specific measures in order to avoid being involved in squeeze play truck crashes, whether on a bustling highway or on city roads. One of the most important steps in avoiding a squeeze play truck accident, according to information presented by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, is to avoid spending time in a truck’s “no-zones” (also referred to as blind spots). Due to its size, a truck’s no-zones can cover massive spaces and generally are located on both sides, with a larger no-zone on the right next to the trailer, as well as in front and in back of the truck.
It is extremely important for drivers to pay attention to a truck’s signals and to provide the truck with extra space to maneuver. In addition, drivers who are stuck behind a truck should never attempt to pass on the right and should remain patient until another opportunity to pass presents itself. These are just some of the defensive driving safety tips for driving near trucks.
What to Do if You Have Been Injured in a New York Truck Accident
Unfortunately, in some cases, neither diligence nor patience can protect a driver from being involved in a squeeze play truck wreck. And due to the severity of squeeze play accidents, drivers or passengers involved may suffer from devastating injuries or even death.
If you have been hurt in a squeeze play accident in New York or if a loved one has been killed in a truck accident, then don’t hesitate to contact the legal professionals at Gacovino, Lake & Associates, P.C. immediately. We can help you file an accident claim to help recover due compensation. We are also able to help you file a wrongful death claim on behalf of your loved one. Call us today at 800-550-0000 for an initial consultation.
