Truck Braking Capability: Large Trucks Are Slower to Stop

Tractor-trailers and other large trucks weigh up to 80,000 pounds and can be as long as 54 feet. All that weight and size makes it harder for a truck to stop suddenly, especially when driving at high speeds.

Driving around a large truck means being vigilant about your surroundings and leaving plenty of following distance. You can’t depend on a big tractor-trailer to brake in time if necessary. Unfortunately, though, even the best drivers fall victim to negligent truckers.

How long does it take for a truck to stop?

In comparison to a giant truck, a normal vehicle weighs roughly 3,000 to 4,000 pounds. If you’re driving your car at 65 miles per hour, it takes about 300 to 400 feet to stop, which is about the length of a football field. That’s pretty scary if you need to brake suddenly while driving on the highway.

What’s even more terrifying is that it takes a truck about 525 to 800 feet (the size of two football fields or more) to stop while traveling 65 miles per hour. That’s four to six seconds of time—long enough to rear-end another vehicle if the driver fails to maintain a safe following distance.

Those numbers were calculated while driving in ideal conditions. If you’re on the road during a rain or snow storm, your stopping distance could increase.

When driving near large trucks:

• Do not move in front of a large truck and suddenly slow down or stop
• Maintain a safe distance while driving in front of a truck
• Avoid the urge to cut around the truck if it starts to slow down, which risks putting you in a blind spot

Proper brake adjustment and maintenance

Commercial drivers and carriers are governed by strict federal regulations. To ensure their brakes remain in top shape, trucks need to be inspected and maintained regularly. Trucks with unsafe brakes can take even longer to come to a full stop.

Drivers who fail to brake in time and cause a truck accident can be held legally liable. As such, companies who fail to lubricate, adjust, and maintain their brakes properly could be held liable for negligence as well.

The Rocky McElhaney Law Firm houses a team of highly qualified Nashville truck accident lawyers. Our Gladiators in Suits are your advocates inside and outside of the courtroom. We help injury victims obtain the compensation they need and deserve.  For strong legal representation in Nashville, Gallatin, Knoxville, or the surrounding areas, call our firm at 615-425-2500 or use our contact form today.