August 8, 2002
Car Drivers Often at Fault in Fatal Car - Truck Crashes

HOUSTON – A new study released by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety shows that if car drivers change their behavior when driving around big trucks (over 10,000 lbs.), they would reduce their involvement in crashes and ultimately save lives.

The study says nationally, car drivers are more likely to cause car-truck fatalities involving large trucks.

It’s a Different Situation
A key finding of the study is that the causes of fatal car-truck crashes are very similar to those of fatal car-car crashes. “This suggests that people drive the same way around big trucks as they do around other cars,” said Rose Rougeau, spokesperson for AAA Texas. “It indicates that car drivers need to realize that greater precautions must be taken when driving near trucks. Big trucks take longer to brake than cars and cannot respond as quickly as cars to abrupt lane changes. If both truck and car drivers drive safely and responsibly, the potential for a crash diminishes.”

1. Failure to keep in the lane or running off the road.
2. Failure to yield the right of way.
3. Driving too fast for conditions or above speed limit.
4. Failure to obey signs and signals.
5. Driver inattention.

Change Their Ways
AAA Texas and AAA recommend that drivers change the way they drive around big trucks by

• Not changing lanes abruptly;
• Slowing down to let trucks have the right of way;
• Driving at a safe speed;
• Staying alert to traffic signals and road conditions;
• Using turn signals;
• Avoiding driving alongside trucks whenever possible, because if you can’t see the truck driver’s face in the side mirror, he or she can not see you;
  and
• Avoiding tailgating.

The study only addressed single-car/single-truck fatalities and did not address injuries or property damage.


The Insurance Record, August 8, 2002