Driving a truck is already tough because of how big and hard to handle these vehicles are. When you add strong winds, it becomes even harder to drive a semi-truck safely. High winds can easily cause truck accidents, putting other drivers at risk of serious or fatal injuries. What accidents can high winds cause?
Truck rollovers
High winds often cause rollovers, which are very common. Trucks carrying lighter loads are more at risk because they do not have as much weight to keep them stable. A sudden strong gust of wind can make the truck slide and possibly tip over. This is dangerous for the truck driver and for any vehicle nearby that could become caught under the flipping truck.
These risks increase as wind speed increase. Studies show that trucks are 76% more likely to roll over in 40 mile per hour winds than in 20 mile per hour winds. This shows how much wind speed can affect how stable and safe large trucks are.
Jackknife accidents
This happens when the trailer swings out and forms a sharp angle with the front of the truck, looking like a folding knife. Strong winds can push the trailer to the side, especially if the driver hits the brakes too hard or suddenly while trying to control the truck. This accident can block the road and create dangers for many vehicles.
Lost load accidents
It is very important to secure the cargo well, especially when it’s windy. If the cargo is not tied down properly, strong winds can knock it off the trailer. Other drivers might have to swerve suddenly to avoid hitting the fallen cargo, which can lead to crashes involving many vehicles.
Unfortunately, even with these risks, some truck drivers stay on the road in dangerously windy conditions. It is essential for drivers sharing the road with semi-trucks to recognize the danger that high winds can cause and understand their rights if a truck accident does occur.