Failing to Maintain a Proper Lookout

Truck accidents are common on the roads and can have devastating consequences. While many factors can contribute to a truck accident, one of the most common causes is failing to maintain a proper lookout. This negligent driving behavior can lead to serious accidents and injuries. Big rig accident lawyer Greg Baumgartner at Baumgartner Law Firm knows how to prove failure to maintain a proper lookout and to win a truck accident lawsuit.

What is Failing to Maintain in a Proper Lookout?

Failing to maintain a proper lookout is a form of negligent driving where the driver fails to pay attention to their surroundings while operating a vehicle. Not watching out can include not checking blind spots, not using mirrors, or not paying attention to traffic signals and signs. In the case of truck drivers, failing to maintain a proper lookout can also include not properly securing their cargo or being aware of their vehicle’s height and width restrictions.

The Dangers of a Trucker Failing to Maintain a Proper Lookout

Failing to maintain a proper lookout can have serious consequences, especially for truck drivers. Due to the size and weight of their vehicles, truck accidents can be much more severe than accidents involving smaller vehicles. Truck drivers risk themselves and others on the road when they fail to maintain a proper lookout. Not watching out can lead to collisions with other vehicles, pedestrians, or even objects on the roadway.

Negligent Driving and Lack of Awareness by Truck Drivers

Failing to maintain a proper lookout is negligent driving, defined as the failure to exercise reasonable care while operating a vehicle. This can include not following traffic laws, not paying attention to road conditions, or not being aware of other vehicles on the road. When a truck driver is negligent in their driving, they are putting themselves at risk and the lives of others.

Lack of awareness also contributes to the failure to maintain a proper lookout.

Truck drivers may be tired, distracted, or under the influence of drugs or alcohol, which can all impair their ability to maintain a proper lookout. The truck driver is responsible for being aware of their surroundings and taking necessary precautions to prevent accidents.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is a dangerous behavior that can contribute to truck accidents. It involves any activity that diverts the driver’s attention away from the task of driving. Common examples of distracted driving include texting or talking on the phone, eating or drinking, talking to people in the vehicle, or using in-vehicle technologies such as navigation systems.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration clarifies the new rules for truck drivers and cell phone use.

To maintain proper surveillance on the road, truck drivers should follow these detailed recommendations:

1. Frequent Mirror Checks: Glance at your mirrors regularly every 5 to 8 seconds. This habit is especially crucial when changing lanes, merging, or making turns to be aware of surrounding traffic.
2. Long-Range Scanning: Continuously monitor the road at least 15 seconds ahead of the vehicle. On an interstate, this distance is roughly a quarter of a mile, while in city traffic, it equates to about one and a half blocks. This foresight helps adapt to changing road conditions and avoid sudden braking situations.
3. Intersection Vigilance: When approaching intersections, look left, right, and left again. This practice ensures a comprehensive assessment of potential hazards and cross-traffic.
4. Alertness to Brake Lights: Stay attentive to the brake lights of vehicles ahead. This helps anticipate slow-downs and stops, contributing to smoother and safer driving.

By incorporating these strategies, truck drivers can significantly enhance their awareness and response times, promoting safer driving for everyone on the road.

Blind Spot Accidents

Blind spots are a significant factor in truck accidents. When truck drivers fail to check their blind spots, it can lead to collisions with other vehicles or pedestrians. Failing to maintain a proper lookout includes not checking blind spots. This negligent driving behavior can have serious consequences, especially for truck drivers, due to the size and weight of their vehicles.

To prevent truck accidents caused by blind spots, truck drivers should regularly check their mirrors and blind spots before changing lanes or making turns.

Additionally, trucking companies can play a role in preventing blind spot accidents by providing education and training on the importance of checking blind spots and implementing safety measures to minimize the risk.