California’s highways and freeways see a massive volume of truck traffic every single day. In fact, the number of trucks on the roads has only gone up over the last decade because of the explosion of e-commerce shopping and same-day or one-day delivery commitments and demands. Whether it’s shipments traveling west from San Bernardino along I-10 to the I-5 corridor, deliveries moving through Los Angeles, or large commercial vehicles heading up the Bay Area, trucks are a key player in the state’s economy. However, their mere size and weight make them more exposed to weather-related hazards. Among the many factors contributing to truck accidents in California, extreme winds are a perilous threat.
The Danger of Extreme Winds for Trucks
Californians are no strangers to extreme winds. The Santa Ana winds in Southern California, strong gusts along the Central Valley, and unpredictable mountain winds all create serious hazards to drivers. Passenger cars can definitely feel the effects of these winds, especially big gusts on driving control. They tend to fare differently than large trucks, which are even more susceptible to the forces of these winds due to their height and broad surface areas. Wind-related crashes often happen when a sudden gust pushes a truck out of its lane, causes it to tip, or makes it hard for the driver to keep control of the massive vehicle. Extreme winds can also contribute to multi-vehicle pileups when truckers lose control and collide with other cars.
Highway Areas in California Prone to Wind and Win-related Accidents
Certain areas in California are infamous for hazardous wind conditions involving large and commercial trucks. Drivers passing through these regions must be especially cautious:
- The Cajon Pass (I-15) is a popular route frequented by commercial trucks. This pass experiences strong winds pretty regularly but it does not make them any less dangerous. These strong winds can unexpectedly push a trailer off balance. The roadway can be quite narrow for periods, and semi-trucks have even gone off the road through the guardrail, over the side, and down the mountain. Practically every time a storm is over the route, drivers experience heavy delays either from accidents or the elements and their effects on trucks.
- The Tehachapi Pass (Highway 58) –– a major trucking path where win speeds often exceed what many consider safe driving conditions.
- The Altamont Pass (I-580) —The route is populated with wind farms (if that is not a big enough clue); this area gets powerful gusts that can easily and dangerously disrupt a truck’s stability.
- Interstate 5 Through Central Valley –– High-speed winds can generate scary driving conditions. Add in heavy rain or a dust storm to already windy conditions, and things can get especially dangerous on this highway.
Be safe when driving near trucks in strong winds or rain by keeping a safe distance to avoid sudden lane shifts caused by wind gusts. If you need to pass, do so efficiently and avoid lingering in blind spots. Reduce your speed in wet conditions. Slick roads increase stopping distances, making it harder to control a vehicle.
Can Wind Affect Truck Stability and Control?
Mother nature in California can startle and frighten any of us while driving, especially on the freeway, with its narrow lanes, high speeds, and heavy traffic. In a compact car, strong winds can give you that swaying sensation––but imagine being in a commercial truck. Unlike the smaller vehicles they share the roads with, semi-trucks have a higher center of gravity and really big surfaces that can act like sails when they get jolted by strong enough winds. Side winds can nudge a massive truck into another lane or even force it off the road altogether. Thus, lateral stability is a critical point for truck drivers. Further, high-profile vehicles, especially the ones carrying light or empty trailers, actually face an added risk of toppling over or rollover risks when wind forces heighten or get to higher speeds. Agencies like the California Division of Motor Vehicles (CA DMV) and California Highway Patrol (CHP) have advised drivers to try not to drive parallel to these large trucks when strong winds are present, as they can tip over. Strong winds also make steering and braking a lot trickier, particularly on wet roads. The bottom line is this combo of factors significantly reduces a truck driver’s ability to maintain control, thus increasing the odds of an accident.
Other Weather Conditions and How They Act on Large Trucks
Although extreme winds are a major hazard, we do have other weather-related conditions that can compel California truck crashes.
Heavy rains and slippery roads mean reduced tire traction, greater stopping distances, and lower visibility. Parts of California, including San Bernardino, get dense fog, especially in winter, spring, and early summer. The fog also reduces visibility, and large trucks take longer to stop, so the risk of collisions and pileups grows. Mother nature is not done yet– as many of us know, unfortunately, even firsthand, wildfires and dust storms create conditions similar to food, with the added danger of possible road closures or debris obstructing lanes. Poor air quality can also make driving harder by irritating the eyes and lungs.
Who is to Blame in a Weather-Related Truck Accident?
While weather plays a role in many trucking accidents, it does not automatically absolve a truck driver or trucking company of liability. Several legal factors are considered:
- Driver Negligence: Truck drivers are expected to adjust their driving behavior according to the weather and road conditions. Failing to slow down, improper cargo loading, or driving in high winds when it is unsafe to do so could fall under negligence.
- Trucking Company Responsibility: If a company pressures its driver to meet a delivery deadline despite hazardous weather conditions, it could be held liable for accidents that transpire.
- Vehicle Maintenance Issues: Worn-out tires, faulty brakes and brake lines, and incorrectly secured cargo can worsen the impacts of bad weather. Trucking companies must keep their fleets of trucks roadworthy and follow all regulations if they want them to be operational.
What Should You Do Right After a Weather-Related Truck Accident?
Taking the right steps is pivotal after an extreme wind or hazardous weather crash involving a truck. It cannot be stressed enough that getting medical attention after any accident is always the right move. Even if you feel your injuries are minor or you think you have none, only a trained medical professional can come to such a conclusion. Many injuries may not be visible right away, especially with the amount of adrenalin present in your body following such a crash. You also want to document the scene, the crash, and your condition. Take pictures and video of vehicle damage, road conditions, and any relevant traffic signs. Witness statements are a powerful tool. If there was anyone else present, someone who may have witnessed the crash, or attest to the conditions, they can provide a statement. You and your loved ones should pledge to make it a standard practice to file a report, meaning always call the police. Make sure you have an official record of what happened. A truck accident personal injury lawyer can also help you when it’s time to determine and present liability and fight for compensation, particularly if the trucking company or the driver was negligent or is trying to deflect blame.
Speaking with A Seasoned Truck Accident and Personal Injury Legal Professional
Weather-related truck accidents are much more complicated than a fender bender with another car. These collisions have multiple parties, complicated insurance claims, and pushy insurance company adjusters. Strong legal representation will make the process much easier for you during your recovery and help to solidify your compensation. Medical care balances lost wages, and pain and suffering are just some of the things compensation can cover, as well as future medical costs. Contact a seasoned California personal injury attorney experienced in weather-related truck accidents for a free and confidential consultation today.
