No one wants to get into an accident, but they happen all the time. In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there are more than 6 million car accidents in the United States every year.
Many of these accidents could have been avoided if drivers were aware of the road hazards that exist and knew how to avoid them. In this blog post, we will discuss four that can ruin your day in a hurry. Evasive maneuvers ahead!
1. Tire Matters
Commercial vehicles face a unique set of challenges when it comes to tires and road hazards. For one, commercial trucks often carry heavy loads, which can put a lot of strain on the tires. This can lead to blowouts or other tire-related issues.
In addition, commercial vehicles often drive on long stretches of road where there is little to no shoulder to pull over in the event of a tire issue. This can make it difficult to avoid road hazards if you are not aware of them in advance.
To avoid tire-related road hazards, it is important to regularly check your tires for wear and tear. If you notice any issues, have them fixed as soon as possible. In addition, be sure to drive at a safe speed and give yourself plenty of room to stop in the event of an issue.
2. Jackknifing
Jackknifing is when a big rig (truck) driver loses control of the vehicle and it ends up in a V-shape. This can be caused by a number of things, including speeding, not paying attention, or even braking too hard. Truck drivers who wish to avoid jackknifing should drive in a manner that avoids sudden movements. This includes reducing speed gradually and keeping a close eye on the road ahead.
Truck drivers who jackknife often (not always) do so because they are not paying attention to the road. This is a major hazard that can cause serious accidents. To avoid it, be sure to keep your eyes on the road and take it slow when driving in conditions that could be hazardous.
3. Windshield damage
Windshield damage can occur on commercial vehicles in a number of ways. Road debris, such as rocks or broken glass, can cause chips or cracks in the windshield. In extreme cases, the entire windshield may need to be replaced.
Another common cause of windshield damage is poor maintenance. For example, if the windshield wipers are not replaced on a regular basis, they can wear down and damage the windshield. In addition, if the windshield is not cleaned regularly, dirt and grime can build up and cause scratches.
If you notice any damage to your windshield, it is important to have it repaired or replaced as soon as possible. Continuing to drive with a damaged windshield can be dangerous and could lead to an accident.
4. Weather Conditions
Bad weather, particularly wet weather conditions, can cause hydroplaning. This occurs when a vehicle loses contact with the road surface due to water. Hydroplaning can be caused by a number of things, including heavy rain, standing water, and even puddles.
To avoid hydroplaning, it is important to drive slowly and carefully in wet conditions. If you find yourself hydroplaning, do not brake suddenly. Instead, gently let off the gas and steer in the direction you want to go.
Another weather-related danger that commercial vehicles face is high winds. High winds can cause a number of problems, including blown tires and damaged windshields. If you are driving in high winds, it is important to be extra cautious and pay close attention to the road.
While weather conditions are out of your control, there are a few things you can do to avoid hazards. First, be sure to check the weather forecast before heading out on a long trip. This will give you an idea of what to expect and allow you to plan accordingly. In addition, be sure to drive slowly and carefully in bad weather. This will give you more time to react if something does happen.
When Dealing With Road Hazards, Do What You Can
No one wants to experience a roadside emergency, but they can happen at any time. If you find yourself in a situation where you need assistance, don’t hesitate to call J&A Fleet Maintenance.
We provide reliable and affordable roadside assistance services that will help get you back on the road as quickly as possible. Don’t let a road hazard ruin your day, be prepared and know what to do if you find yourself in an emergency situation!