EP058: Why do trucks and bikes collide?

Every year, hundreds of bicyclists are killed by truck accidents. Why do trucks and bikes collide? In today's episode, Richard Duquette explores a variety of risk factors that cause truck-bicycle accidents. Tune in to understand how you can proceed with your case! Cause #1: Driver Fatigue More than half of the total truck accidents involve driver fatigue. Truck drivers can drive up to 16 hours every day. But many times they compile a total of 60 hours in less than 5 days. Companies pay these drivers to produce. Log book, receipts, and vouchers can prove the fatigue they experience. Cause #2: Blind Spots Sometimes truck drivers fail to see the bicyclist. Just as the saying goes, "If you can't see the truck driver in his mirror, he can't see you." This is a big problem. Five things that the driver can do to deal with illegal lane changes are: adjust his speed, have a spotter, obtain a West Coast mirror, signal in advance of a turn, and improve his training. Cause #3: Following Too Close and Speeding An 18-wheeler truck takes 300 feet to stop at 55 mph. This depends on the load it carries. That is why a truck driver needs to be cautious when driving on a road. His perception, reaction and braking are things to be considered in stopping. Just imagine the impact when he drives speedily with a bicyclist just few feet ahead of him. To hear about Why Do Trucks and Bikes Collide, download and listen to the entire episode. Don’t forget to leave us a 5-star rating and review if you enjoyed the show. We would love to hear from you! Connect with Richard L. Duquette at the following links: Richard's Website Email Richard Call Richard: 760-730-0500 Connect with Richard on Facebook Follow Richard on Twitter © 2016 Law Firm of Richard L. Duquette