Wide Turn Trucking Accidents

A common trucking accident scenario involves a large truck swinging across a second lane in making a wide turn. In a right turn, a truck may start in the left lane, swing across the right lane and strike a vehicle whose driver does not recognize the truck is turning right. Similarly, in making a left turn, a large truck may start in the right lane, turn across the left lane and strike a vehicle whose driver does not recognize what the trucker is doing.

A well-trained, professional truck driver knows better than to let that happen.

The Commercial Driver’s License Manual of Georgia, and similarly in every other state, prescribes maneuvers to turn safely in a manner that will prevent such collisions.

At Section 2.7.6 of the Georgia CDL Manual, it states:

Right Turns. Here are some rules to help prevent right-turn crashes:

Turn slowly to give yourself and others more time to avoid problems.

If you are driving a truck or bus that cannot make the right turn without swinging into another lane, turn wide as you complete the turn. Keep the rear of your vehicle close to the curb. This will stop other drivers from passing you on the right.

Don’t turn wide to the left as you start the turn. A following driver may think you are turning left and try to pass you on the right. You may crash into the other vehicle as you complete your turn.

If you must cross into the oncoming lane to make a turn, watch out for vehicles coming toward you. Give them room to go by or to stop. However, don’t back up for them, because you might hit someone behind you.

Left Turns. On a left turn, make sure you have reached the center of the intersection before you start the left turn. If you turn too soon, the left side of your vehicle may hit another vehicle because of offtracking.

If there are two turning lanes, always take the right turn lane. Don’t start in the inside lane because you may have to swing right to make the turn. Drivers on your left can be more readily seen. See Figure 2.14.