High winds can lead to crashes involving large trucks

Residents of Louisiana may enjoy the breeze blowing on a hot day, but there comes a point when those breezes become dangerous. Many drivers don’t realize that gusty winds can be a major safety hazard for drivers. High wind speeds are especially dangerous for high-profile vehicles, such as semitrucks. The wind can hit these vehicles and cause them to overturn. In some cases, they may cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle even if it doesn’t overturn. When do winds become dangerous? While there aren’t any specific rules that state when winds are too high for semitrucks to safely drive in, it’s widely agreed that it’s not safe for large trucks when the winds are 60 miles per hour (mph) or greater. However, there are still risks with lower wind speeds. Winds that are 40 mph to 59 mph can also be hazardous, especially if the winds are coming toward the broadside of the trailer. Unfortunately, dispatchers will sometimes push truckers to drive in these conditions, which can others on the road at risk of being involved in a crash with them. Drivers who are near semitrucks in windy conditions should ensure they’re leaving ample space for the trucker to operate their vehicle. It’s wise to plan extra time for your trip when it’s windy outside. Anyone who’s struck by a semitruck driver who wasn’t driving in a safe manner should ensure they obtain medical treatment for any injuries they suffer. They might choose to seek compensation for the financial impact of the crash. Be sure you do this quickly because Louisiana law has time limits for these claims.