Why Do Most Truck Wrecks Occur at Night?
Many rear-end collisions occur at night. The Commercial Driver License Manual (2.11.4- Vehicle Factors-Headlights) prescribes that drivers must adjuster their speed to keep their stopping distance within their sight distance. This means going slowly enough to be able to stop within the range of their headlights.
The Perception-Reaction Process has 4 phases:
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Phase 1- The Detection Phase- The time from when an object in or near the roadway first becomes vision to the time the driver is consciously aware of it.
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Phase 2- The Identification Phase- The time it takes to recognize the object as a hazard and understand its meaning.
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Phase 3- The Decision Phase- The time it takes to determine what action, if any, is necessary.
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Phase 4- The Response or Action Phase- The time it takes to begin to execute whatever evasive action the driver determines is necessary.
The length of each phase depends on many factors pertaining to the driver, the environment, and the object/vehicle in the road. Driver factors include age, gender, fatigue, intoxication, stress, driver's expectation and driver's distractions. Environmental factors include lighting, weather, background, headlight glare, and speed. Object factors include size, movement, conspicuity, and identifiability.
Truck drivers are required to follow specific rules regarding the use of low and high beams while operating their vehicles on the road. Here are the rules for truck drivers regarding low and high beams:
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Low beams: Truck drivers must use their low beams when driving in conditions of reduced visibility, such as in fog, rain, or snow. Low beams provide a wide, short-range beam of light that helps illuminate the road ahead without causing glare or blinding other drivers.
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High beams: Truck drivers are allowed to use their high beams when driving on open highways and roads with little traffic, as long as they do not blind other drivers. High beams provide a longer, brighter beam of light that can help the driver see farther down the road.
However, truck drivers are required to switch to their low beams when approaching other vehicles within 500 feet, and when following other vehicles within 300 feet. They are also required to dim their high beams when approaching oncoming vehicles within 500 feet.
Truck drivers who violate these rules regarding the use of low and high beams can be cited for a traffic violation, and may be subject to fines or other penalties. In addition to following these rules, truck drivers should also ensure that their headlights are properly maintained and functioning, to ensure maximum visibility and safety while driving.
Why Hire a Truck Accident Attorney in Colorado?
Simply put, hiring an experienced truck accident attorney after your accident gives you the best possible chance of ending up with a good outcome in a very bad situation. Numerous parties may be liable for your injuries, and an experienced attorney from Hagen Nares PLLC will be able to identify those parties and determine how best to pursue compensation. The introduction of these other parties, as well as the complicated web of statutes and regulations, means that pursuing a claim requires a special level of expertise.
Contact a Truck Accident Attorney in Colorado Today
At Hagen Nares PLLC, we have successfully represented clients who were involved in a trucking accident. We understand the laws established by the State of Colorado as well as federal law and will make sure that each party who is liable is held accountable. You don't have to face this alone–call 720-772-8513 today to schedule Free Consultation.