In a devastating incident reported on July 10, 2024, by KTIV, a man from Northwest Iowa lost his life after a semi-truck ran a stop sign. The Iowa State Patrol confirmed that the semi-truck, driven by a 65-year-old man, failed to stop at an intersection and collided with another vehicle. The accident occurred on a county road where the semi-truck, approaching from the south, was supposed to stop but didn’t. The tragic event led to the death of 42-year-old Nicholas Van Maanen, who was driving a pickup truck that was struck by the semi.
Authorities responded to the scene quickly, but despite their efforts, Van Maanen was pronounced dead shortly after the collision. The Iowa State Patrol is conducting an investigation into the matter, but early indications suggest that the semi-truck’s failure to stop was the primary cause of the crash. This heartbreaking loss highlights the severe consequences of negligence on the road and the importance of all drivers following traffic laws, especially when operating large vehicles like semi-trucks. Many of these accidents can be avoided, but sometimes it is simply impossible to avoid someone else’s negligence. An Iowa 18 wheeler accident lawyer will understand how to best handle your case. The attorneys at Des Moines Injury Law have had thousands of satisfied clients and know the ins and outs of personal injury law, which is why it is important to contact us as soon as possible to get assistance for your case.
How To Stay Safe When Sharing The Road With Large Trucks
Large trucks, including 18-wheelers and semi-trucks, are common on highways and can pose significant risks to other motorists due to their size and weight. While many truck drivers are experienced professionals, accidents can happen. However, there are ways to improve safety and reduce the risk of accidents while sharing the road with these large vehicles. If your accident was unavoidable, you should reach out to an Iowa 18 wheeler accident attorney quickly to help get compensation for your damages.
First and foremost, maintain a safe distance. Trucks have large blind spots, often referred to as “no-zones,” where the truck driver may not see nearby cars. When driving behind or alongside a large truck, it is crucial to stay out of these no-zones, particularly near the sides, rear, and front of the truck. Additionally, remember that trucks require more time to stop due to their size, so avoid cutting in front of them too closely.
Secondly, always use turn signals well in advance when changing lanes near a truck. Sudden lane changes can surprise truck drivers, leading to dangerous situations. Patience and clear communication on the road help prevent accidents by ensuring truck drivers can anticipate other motorists’ movements.
Another important safety tip is to avoid distracted driving. Keep full attention on the road when near large vehicles. Distractions such as texting or adjusting the radio can be particularly dangerous when sharing the road with trucks, which have longer stopping distances and require more room to maneuver.
Lastly, always respect weather conditions and adjust driving behavior accordingly. Trucks are more susceptible to wind, ice, and slippery conditions due to their height and weight. In bad weather, it’s especially important to give trucks even more room and avoid abrupt maneuvers. Always anticipate that stopping distances for both trucks and cars increase under adverse weather conditions, so slowing down and being cautious can save lives.
Reach Out Today
If an accident involving a large truck occurs, it’s essential to seek legal advice from Iowa 18 wheeler accident attorneys who understand the complexities of these cases. For those affected, securing the right support can make a significant difference in navigating the challenges ahead. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help to ensure protection and fair compensation following such an incident. Des Moines Injury Law would be happy to assist. We settle the majority of our cases outside of court, but will be prepared to go to court, if necessary. Do not wait – reach out today to set up a consultation.
