Swinging Turns

Tractor trailer trucks need a much wider area to turn right or left at Chicago area intersections. Because of the size of the tractor and its trailer, the truck driver often needs a wide area in order to turn safely making a right or turn left. The driver can’t see cars directly next to it or behind it.

For motor vehicle drivers, it is important to identify a wide swinging truck. Because the blind spots are so wide, the truck driver cannot see a vehicle who may try to squeeze in between the commercial vehicle and the curb.

It is inescapable that collisions will occur when vehicle drivers do not take extreme caution when trucks are making right or left turns at intersections.

The danger zone is the area around the trucks where crashes are more likely to occur when a truck is making that swinging turn. Vehicle drivers should take extreme caution to allow the truck to make a safe maneuver to the right or the left. Trucks are operated much differently then passenger vehicles. Drivers should be alert not to pass a truck on the right when the truck is turning to the right. Because of a wide swing to the left, the truck needs that extra space to safely maneuver the vehicle to the right.

For the safest approach, drivers of vehicles should allow trucks to 4 or 5 seconds of space depending on conditions to safely turn right or left on a city street. In addition, it is always important to allow enough space between a motor vehicle and a truck in front, especially large trucks given their massive weight.

Because of the size of large commercial trucks, they need additional space to make wide turns by essentially swinging out in the opposite direction of the intended turn. In doing that, it may lead the unwary in believing that the truck is turning in the opposite direction instead of the wide swinging turn. Extra precaution should be taken by vehicle drivers when approaching a large commercial truck at intersections.

It is imperative that all drivers safely share the road with trucks and other large vehicles.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident, contact Kreisman Law Offices 24 hours a day at 312.346.0045 or toll free 800.583.8002 for a free and immediate consultation, or complete a contact form online. We are here to assist you and your family so that responsible parties are held accountable for the injuries or death to individuals injured in truck accidents. We have more than 40 years of successful experience handling truck accident injury cases. With our many years of trial experience handling truck accident cases in Illinois, we have the know-how to best handle your case. Our service is unmatched. Call us today!

Client Reviews
★★★★★
“We were devastated when our 31 year-old son was killed by a negligent driver. Kreisman Law Offices did everything to help us through this very difficult time, including coming out to the house several times which was a comfort. My wife and I were extremely pleased with Mr. Kreisman’s compassion and care for this very tragic and troubling time.” C.B.
★★★★★
“Bob Kreisman did everything possible in handling the trial of this case. It was devastating that I traumatically lost my leg above the knee in this truck accident. However, it was not an easy case to win. His staff was so prepared for the trial that it was not surprising that the settlement offers continued to rise until we finally accepted the multi-million settlement while the jury was still deciding the case. My wife and I were delighted that we could secure our future with this settlement. We thank Mr. Kreisman and his incredible staff for working so hard for our benefit.” T.P.
★★★★★
“My mother died because doctors dropped the ball. I called Robert Kreisman and he immediately set up an appointment for my entire family. We met at his offices and I was very comfortable that he would do the best for my dad and my brothers. He spent hours with all of us in preparing for depositions and he hired top notch experts, all of which contributed to an incredible settlement before trial. I know that he is dedicated to his cases and particularly to the people he works for and the people who work with him. He continues to be generous in contributing annually to my mother’s memory and to make known to the public the signs and symptoms of brain tumors.” V.S.
★★★★★
“My dad was ignored and mistreated at the nursing home that we placed him in. It didn’t take long for us to realize that we made a big mistake, particularly after my dad developed these terrible bedsores. We transferred him as we were contacting Mr. Kreisman. He was referred to us by a lawyer we have known for a long time and respect his opinion. Mr. Kreisman and his staff worked tirelessly to resolve this case. We were fortunate to have his services and will recommend him to anyone.” T.J.
Submit a Law Firm Client Review