It’s no surprise that the weather in West Virginia can be very unpredictable, especially during the winter months. We can start the day with sunshine and end it with inches of snow.  While most of us are familiar with the sporadic weather changes, it can be challenging to operate a vehicle when you’re sharing the road with a large truck or tractor-trailer. Below are some tips to follow if you find yourself surrounded by large trucks during inclement weather:

Wind and Rain

  • Slow Down – Rainy conditions equal slippery roads. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCA) suggests reducing your speed by 1/3 when roads are wet.
  • Turn your lights on – Many states require your lights to be on while it is raining. Headlights can help to maintain visibility.
  • Give yourself plenty of space – You should never follow too closely, but it becomes even more important driving near trucks in the rain. Large semi-trucks and tractor-trailers cause water to spray from their tires, obstructing your view of the road and other vehicles around you.
  • Pay attention to swaying – If the truck’s load is light, there is a higher chance for the wind to cause swaying. If you notice this occurring, take caution when passing.

Snow and Ice

  • Watch for trouble areasBlack ice is hazardous because you are unable to see it. Pay close attention and decrease speed in areas where black ice is possible.
  • Never stop on the shoulderTrucks can lose control and slide into your car. If there is an emergency and you need to pull off, try to find the nearest rest area or gas station.
  • Keep your lights on and cleanIce and snow can build up on your lights, decreasing your visibility. Large trucks already have a difficult time seeing smaller vehicles, especially if their headlights are not visible.

With unpredictable weather and increasing number of large trucks on our roads, it is no shock that accidents continue to occur. If you’ve been injured in a West Virginia’s truck accident, Manchin Injury Law can help. Call us today for a free consultation.

 

 

 

Attorney Timothy Manchin established the Manchin Injury Law Group in 2011 after his law partner of more than 25 years became a West Virginia circuit court judge. His focus is on helping individual clients and entire families victimized by negligent acts.

  • Taylor Downs was easy to talk to (I do not speak the legal language well!) and was very upfront and honest about the entire process of my case. He kept me updated as the case progressed, and answered my relentless questions. The end result was a favorable settlement that I’m not sure could have been any better with anyone else. In short, go see Taylor if you have a case. Don’t be intimidated to go seek his help, he won’t blow your brains out with “legal speak”.

    - PAUL MOUSER

  • Being referred to Taylor was the best thing I could have asked for. Taylor and staff are very easy to talk to. I would highly recommend them to anyone.

    - DAWN FRISENDA

  • If I ever have to go through it again I would definetly call Taylor right away. The group was so helpful through my situation and handled everything that needed to be done. They made a stressful situation a stress free situation. With Taylor you dont have to worry about one thing. Definietly would recomend to anyone.

    - TAYLOR G.

  • Efficient, knowledgeable, and friendly.

    - NOAH SCHUMAKER

  • Taylor and Tim helped make a difficult moment in life, a little more bearable. Easy to communicate with and informative. I will absolutely recommend them to everyone.

    - ANONYMOUS

  • Manchin Injury Law Group, Took care of me when I got into a car accident while I was pregnant. Very scary moment for a first time mom but thankfully Manchin Injury Law Group had my back and treated me great. They made me feel as if I was part of their family. My son is now 7 Months Old and very happy and healthy. I’m very thankful for them for helping me through everything and getting me what we deserved. I 100% would recommend them to anyone. If I ever have an accident again they will be my number 1 phone call!

    - SHAWNNA SHAFFER

  • The support given helped me to feel like I was included in my personal injury case every step of the way. I was informed about the entire process throughout. It was amazing how quick the turn around time was and I would definitely recommend Attorney Timothy J. Manchin to anyone!

    - ANONYMOUS

  • Taylor and Kelly worked hard on my case so I didn’t have to. Thanks guys!

    - TERRI L. ARMENTROUT

  • Excellent experience dealing with Manchin Injury Law. They were very responsive, professional and easy to talk to. I did my homework before I hired a lawyer after my accident and I am so glad I found Manchin Injury Law Group. If you are injured, give them a call!

    - VILLA COVENANTS

  • Taylor and Tim helped make a difficult moment in life, a little more bearable. Easy to communicate with and informative. I will absolutely recommend them to everyone.

    - CHAD BILOTTA

  • Kelly and Taylor did all the hard work so that I didn’t have to. They both cared about my circumstance and got me a nice settlement. Taylor knows what he is doing and I felt comfortable with my case in his hands.

    - JASON + STACIE MORGAN

  • Great lawyers. They helped me with a West Virginia case.

    - JOSEPH SAUNDERS

  • Such a great experience with Taylor and this firm. Thankful for their diligence and their work on our case. Thank you to all!

    - RENEE FLORENCE WARNER

  • Had a easy and smooth experience with a great attorney so when you go there make sure you ask for Taylor.

    - TIM CROSS

  • My experience at the Manchin Injury Law Group was extremely positive, and I would recommend them to anyone who needs a compassionate and experienced lawyer on their side.

    - TAMMY LACARIA

Contact Us Today

We offer a free initial consultation at our office in the Manchin Professional Building — our home since 1983 — conveniently located in Fairmont.

If you are unable to visit our firm, we can come to your home or hospital room.

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