If you drive one of Kentucky’s many secondary roads, you’ve likely found commercial trucks sharing the road with you. This can be stressful because these roads, located mostly in rural areas, simply aren’t meant for these large vehicles.
One problem is that the GPS navigation used by many long-haul truckers isn’t programmed to keep them within the National Truck Network. The GPS registers these secondary roads as shortcuts, so that’s where they’re programmed to direct truckers to save time (and expensive fuel).
Large commercial trucks are involved in a significant portion of the crashes on these roads
This isn’t just a nuisance to drivers of cars and other smaller vehicles. It’s dangerous. For example, on Kentucky State Route 286 (KY 286) alone, about a quarter of crashes over the past few years have involved large commercial trucks. That percentage has been climbing closer to one-half. Even if a crash doesn’t cause injuries, it can shut down one of these roads for hours – stopping traffic on routes that farmers and other local business owners count on being able to access.
Kentucky state agencies are taking steps to keep trucks off of these roads. This past fall, the Kentucky State Police (KSP) and the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) announced that they’ll be placing “No Truck” signs in locations where highways intersect or merge with these secondary roads. Commercial Vehicle Enforcement (CVE) patrols in these areas will be increased and citations issued to those drivers who ignore the signs.
A collision involving a commercial truck and a car or even a pick-up truck is generally far more serious for those in the smaller vehicle. Getting the necessary compensation to cover medical bills and other expenses and damages can be challenging. Those with potential liability, including the driver, the trucking company and third parties often try to place the blame on each other. That’s why no one should try to take on these parties and their insurers alone. Having experienced legal guidance can help you get a fair settlement.